For exertional lower-leg symptoms and suspected chronic exertional compartment syndrome, referring doctors can discuss the diagnostic question with us by telephone in advance. We assess whether pressure measurement is appropriate based on the medical history, clinical examination and available findings.
Helpful information includes the affected side and area, the activity that triggers symptoms, their timing and duration, and details of previous investigations and treatment. Existing reports and relevant imaging support the assessment. Pressure measurement is arranged by telephone; an appointment booked online is initially for a medical consultation.
Examination location: Dr Andreas Aust's practice, Katharinenstraße 15, 79104 Freiburg. Contact and practice information
Selected studies on exercise-related compartment pressure measurement
Intramuscular pressure measurement after a standardized exercise challenge complements the history, clinical examination and differential diagnosis. Pressure thresholds and the compartment measured should be interpreted in clinical context.
- van Heeswijk et al. (2026), Orthop J Sports Med. The number of Pedowitz criteria met was not consistently associated with outcome after fasciotomy. Original study on PubMed
- Dean et al. (2024), J ISAKOS. A systematic review of pressure measurement methods and treatment pathways highlights differences between study protocols. Review on PubMed
- Lindorsson et al. (2023), Orthop J Sports Med. Preoperative and postoperative pressure values and patient-reported outcomes were examined in patients treated surgically for anterior chronic exertional compartment syndrome. Original study on PubMed
- Lindorsson et al. (2021), Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. Pressure values in the lateral and posterior compartments were lower than in the anterior compartment, calling uniform thresholds across compartments into question. Original study on PubMed
Continuous pressure measurement during exercise
In the following studies, the catheter remained in the compartment during the treadmill test and pressure was recorded continuously while participants moved. This differs from measuring pressure only after exercise has ended.
- Trew et al. (2022), Orthop J Sports Med. In a retrospective cohort of 28 surgical patients, peak pressure and its course during exercise were associated with pain improvement after fasciotomy. The proposed criteria require prospective evaluation. Original study on PubMed
- Roscoe et al. (2015), Am J Sports Med. In 20 symptomatic men and 20 controls, continuous measurement during treadmill exercise differentiated the groups. A threshold of 105 mmHg in a defined exercise phase yielded 63% sensitivity and 95% specificity. Its applicability to other protocols and compartments remains uncertain. Original study on PubMed