A comparison of anterior compartment pressures in competitive runners and cyclists

Anterior compartment pressure was measured in 10 competitive runners and in 10 competitive cyclists who were asymptomatic for compartment syndrome. Pressures were measured at rest, after exercise at 80% VO2max, after maximal exercise, and 15 minutes after both exercise bouts. No difference in compartment pressure was found after exercise at 80% VO2max in runners and cyclists. Total creatinine phosphokinase enzyme levels measured before and after exercise at 80% VO2max showed a 10-fold increase in runners as compared to cyclists. Anterior compartment pressure measured after maximal exercise was significantly greater in runners as compared to cyclists. Compartment pressure showed no increase from resting values during cycling at 80% VO2max or maximal exercise. These findings suggest that patients with chronic anterior compartment syndrome may be able to cycle without elevation of compartment pressure and concomitant pain as an alternative exercise to maintain a continued degree of fitness and training. Compartment pressures should be measured during cycling in patients with chronic compartment syndrome to determine its efficacy as a method for maintenance of cardiorespiratory fitness.