Exercise-Induced Nerve Pain or Numbness / Exertional Compartment Syndrome

Some individuals develop pain or numbness with strenuous physical activity, which may be related to nerve compression or exertional compartment syndrome. This is most common in the legs. For individuals with this problem, activity causes swell of the muscles within the compartments of the leg, which can cause pain and numbness. The diagnostic workup often includes EMG and compartment pressure measurements, often performed on a treadmill, to determine the contribution from exertion. Treatment involves surgery and nerve decompression of the affected extremity.