Risk Factors And Causes Of Compartment Syndrome

Fractures

There are different kinds of fractures, and nearly all of them can put the patient at risk for compartment syndrome. The fracture can be complete, which means the bone is broken through. They can be incomplete, meaning the bone has suffered a crack. An open fracture means the bone has penetrated the skin. The individual will feel an intense pain that doesn’t go away with rest, and their arm or leg may be deformed. There may be bleeding and bruising at the fracture site, and if the fracture is in a leg, the leg won’t be able to bear the individual's weight. If the person can’t feel the limb beneath the fracture or they feel tingling or numbness, it probably indicates nerve damage. This is a medical emergency.