Acute exertional compartment syndrome in an athlete.

Acute exertional compartment syndrome is a rare condition, associated with strenuous, unaccustomed exercise. This report describes its onset in a professional footballer during a regular training session. It is often diagnosed late due to lack of awareness and patient stoicism. We illustrate the consequences of delay and reinforce the need for prompt and decisive fasciotomy if complications are to be avoided. Copyright 2001 The British Association of Plastic Surgeons.