The chronic compartment syndrome and response to diuretic treatment

In five middle-aged men with calf pain during jogging or fast walking, chronic compartment syndrome of the calf or anterior tibial muscles was revealed by circulatory studies which included measurement of compartment tissue pressure. After two to three weeks of diuretic medication the men were re-examined. Initially elevated compartment tissue pressures at rest and after exercise were significantly decreased following diuretic treatment. The study indicates that calf pain similar to that of arterial insufficiency may be caused by compartment syndrome even in elderly persons and may be relieved with diuretic medication.