exercise

What exercises should be avoided?  I am a fitness instructor and personal trainer recently diagnosed.  I don't want to give up the things I love.   I have always had a push past the pain attitude, but also don't want to put myself at risk.  I would appreciate any help.  Thanks.

[rod44]

Hi, There are many varying opinions within the medical profession on this, some say light exercise, some say no exercise and so on. Personally I feel anything that involves straining that will increase CSF pressure is not good, one of the risks involved if there is a CSF obstruction is the development of a Syrinx. I would have a chat with my NS about this as they would be most qualified to answer as they know your medical history.

Ray    

[selmaS]

Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

I must agree with the straining part of Rays reply...but u really need to listen to ur body as well....it could  get to a point where simple things that do not include strain may cause u an issue....

Lifting weights, jumping, running....should be avoided.....swimming, without diving is ok...walking on flat surfaces.....pilates depending on position of neck .......

As Ray mentioned u do not want to develop a syrinx and what ever it takes, unfortunately this does alter our lifestyle.

We r happy to have u join us here, but not the reason u had to seek us out.

"slema"

[*Stormy*]

Hi!

Check out these two links from our Health pages, I think they are really helpful.

http://www.medhelp.org/health_pages/Neurological-Disorders/Activities-to-avoid-with-Chiari-and-Syringomyelia/show/986?cid=186

http://www.medhelp.org/health_pages/Neurological-Disorders/TIPS-FOR-CHIARIANS-ON-EXERCISING-AND-SYMPTOM-ALLEVIATION-/show/1139?cid=186

From my personal experience, I did the wrong kind of exercise...I was running 3-4 days a week and lifting weights. I didn't know what was wrong with me and the dr's kept saying stress so I upped my workout routine. My symptoms rapidly progressed from there and severely affected my gait.  If I had know that I had Chiari, I would have never done what I did....so please be cautious!!
I have the same attitude you do, I always push through the pain too. In some ways it is very helpful b/c it gets me through the day but in that instance...I should have listened to my body.

Take care and good luck!
Carolyn