Intra-Compartmental Pressure Tests

Intra-compartmental pressure (ICP) testing is considered the gold standard diagnostic test for chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) in terms of accuracy and reproducibility however, it is a painful, invasive procedure, reliant upon the skill of the tester.  In spite of these disadvantages pressure measurements are the only available objective test.


A catheter is inserted into the offending compartment to measure its pressure. Most often 3 pressure readings will be taken; resting, and 1 minute and 5 minutes post exercise. Most physicians rely solely on the post-exercise pressures to render a diagnosis. The pressures alone, are not relative; they must show an elevation from the resting pressure along with a recurrence in symptoms.


Appropriate pressure reading are a subject of debate. Most physicians will follow these readings:
  • Normal Resting Pressure: 10 mm Hg
  • Abnormal Resting Pressure: >20 mm Hg
  • Abnormal Exertional Pressure: >30 mm Hg
  • Abnormal Post-Exercise Pressure: >25 mm Hg
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)