What are common causes of compartment syndrome?

Compartment syndrome occurs when increased pressure within a closed muscle compartment leads to reduced blood flow, nerve damage, and muscle ischemia. Common causes involve scenarios that either result in swelling or restrict the normal expansion of the compartment.

Fractures and crush injuries are among the most well-known precipitating events. They can lead to bleeding and swelling within the compartments of the limbs, causing dangerous pressure buildup. Tight casts or dressings can also constrict the compartments and, if applied too snugly, can contribute significantly to the development of compartment syndrome by limiting space for swelling.

Other options, such as excessive physical training, may lead to muscle strain and swelling, but they are less commonly associated with the acute and severe form of compartment syndrome seen in traumatic situations. Infections, allergies, obesity, and malnutrition can affect overall health but do not directly lead to the sudden environmental changes in pressure that characterize compartment syndrome as effectively as fractures, crush injuries, and tight dressings do. Thus, option A encompasses the most critical and immediate risk factors associated with the condition.