What is a common complication associated with tennis leg?

Tennis leg refers to a specific injury that typically occurs in the calf muscles, particularly the gastrocnemius, during activities like tennis that require sudden acceleration and deceleration. One of the notable complications associated with an acute injury in this area is acute compartment syndrome. This condition occurs when swelling from the injury increases pressure within a closed muscle compartment, potentially leading to vascular compromise and muscle damage. Patients might present with severe pain, swelling, and numbness in the affected area, making recognition and prompt treatment critical to prevent long-term damage.

While the other options represent various injuries or conditions, they are not directly related to the complications from a tennis leg injury. For instance, chronic ankle instability is typically associated with recurrent ankle sprains, rather than with acute calf injuries. An Achilles tendon rupture involves the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone, and while it may happen in similar sports scenarios, it is distinct from the acute complication of compartment syndrome. A pulled hamstring, while also a common sports-related injury, does not arise specifically from the same mechanisms as tennis leg, which specifically involves the calf musculature. Thus, acute compartment syndrome stands out as a significant and serious complication related to tennis leg injuries.