Your patient is a 15-year-old soccer player who was kicked in the calf by another player. She has a contusion on her calf, but the amount of pain she is experiencing seems out of proportion to the apparent injury. You note that although you can palpate a pedal pulse, there is swelling in the foot and ankle, and the skin is cool to the touch. You should suspect which of the following at this time?
A) Compartment syndrome
B) Volkmann's ischemic contracture
C) Crush syndrome
D) Degloving injury

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of significant pain disproportionate to the apparent injury, along with swelling and cool skin, are classic signs of compartment syndrome.

Your Patient Is a 15-Year-Old Soccer Player Who Was Kicked