As mentioned in another post, after struggling around with lower limb pain, worsening on exertion but flaring up with simple things like walking up the street, I was diagnosed with possible compartment syndrome. I am not a triathlete, but am fit and undertake a lot of other training, much of work related (military).
I was able to see a sports physician, who undertook compartment pressure testing. All four compartments were elevated at rest (above 20), and distinctively elevated after exercise (40 to 50). In the meantime I have been treated with orthotics and heavy physical restrictions, such as no running/walking strenuously. Cycling does not seem to flare the symptoms too much, so I have been undertaking a lot of that. Fortunately/unfortunately for me, the doc also discovered that my previously reconstructed left knee was completely unstable again. Multiple scans and xrays have been undertaken - the most interesting result being that my popliteal vein is squashed very flat by the surrounding musculature.
I was initially referred to a vascular surgeon who agreed that I needed four fasciotomies. I was also referred to an orthopedic surgeon who agreed I need a revision of the reconstruction on my left knee. In the meantime, waiting for the surgery time to come around, the surgeons got talking, and decided to change their plan to have me injected with botox (souleus and gastrocneimius) to paralyze and decompress the muscles around the squashed vein.
This did not sit so well with me. I am more than happy with having my knee reconstructed, and the doctors are quite curious to see the result that that has upon my compartment syndrome, seeing the left side is worse than the right. I have re-challenged their plan of treatment after getting a “heads-up” on the issues with botox - relatively short effect, and why would I want my muscles paralyzed?
The result being that I will still receive the knee recon, but now will also have both popliteal fossas decompressed surgically. More pain, more rehab, more scarring but I have been told that this is much more likely to have a permanent effect, which is better for me and better for the military. They will assess whether this increased blood flow will relieve all the compartment syndrome pain, and if not, I can still have fasciotomies and/or botox therapy.
Has anyone else experienced the popliteal decompression? I have been informed that the legs will require to be done separately, so I am looking at three separate surgeries at this point.
Still, I am looking forward (in 12 months or so) to being able to return fully to sport and training. It does sound like a long haul, whew! And guys digs scars right (or is just the ladies?)?