Devin's Battle With Chiari Malformation
What is Chiari Malformation
(Arnold Chiari Malformation)
Chiari Malformation is a malformation that may occur with development of the baby or in later life. The malformation consists of a protrusion of the bottom portion of the cerebellum into the upper portion of the spinal canal. This malformation can lead to headaches, arm or leg symptoms, or problems with the nerves that supply the head and neck. When appropriately diagnosed, treatment can consist of surgical decompression of the base of the brain.
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4-25-2006
Hi my name is Devin and I am building this site to help raise awareness about Chiari Malformation. I will be updating this site frequently as it is still in it's building stages. If you are here because you have this condition and are trying to do as much research as possible, as I did, then there is one VERY important piece of advice that I would like to give you. If you listen to nothing else, please follow this bit of research advice. Everyone's battle with Chiari is different. Although we may all have some of the same symptoms, they may not be for the same reasons. We ALL heal differently. Our bodies all react differently to the decompression procedure. Although you will ask questions to fellow Chiari patients, as you should, remember that they are not doctors, and are only speaking from their own experiences. DO NOT take their diagnosis as medical advice. If you have concerns about any part of your recovery or surgery ALWAYS consult your doctor. There is no reason to get scared and worried until you hear your doctor tell you there is a problem. This is where I went wrong. Use the forums and blogs to educate yourself and learn which questions you should ask your doctor.
Devin
Click on the image above to help support research for Chiari Malformation