What considerations do you make for an athlete with compartment syndrome?
I am going to train a sophomore basketball player who just had surgery to help with her compartment syndrome. She had her surgery on August 24th and has now been given clearance by her doctor to increase her activity. Her basketball season starts on November 11th and her goal is to be able to run 2 miles at the start of the season. She has been walking, riding a stationary bike, and has completed short periods of running. I am interested in knowing what precautions I should take with her and what kind of progression you would take with her considering her basketball season starts in three weeks.
Although I’m a certified trainer, I’m a registered nurse by career. So this is my advice. First, what muscle was inflicted with the compartment syndrome? how big is the incision? Has the patient done physical therapy?
So, my main concern is strength and flexibility. Obviously the patient is not as strong as she was. As for flexibility, I’m sure the scar will affect flexibility and muscle function/strength. So know what structures too were affected if there was muscle/tendon damage. Also, what was her compartment syndrome cause by, be cautious not to push her too hard and cause further muscle injury.