n. (in anatomy) any one of the spaces in a limb that are bounded by bone and thick sheets of fascia and enclose the muscles and other tissues of the limb.
A painful cramp due to compression of a group of muscles within a confined space. It may occur when muscles are enlarged due to intensive training or injury such as shin splints. Cramps induced by exercise usually disappear when exercise is stopped. Severe cases may require fasciotomy to improve blood flow and prevent development of a permanent contracture.... compartment syndrome
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