Hi I would suggest u join us in the chiari forum as well-
http://www.medhelp.org/forums/Chiari-Malformation/show/257?camp=msc
But b4 u consider surgery, know she can end up in a lot more pain post op especially if u rush into it thinking it will be a cure, there is none. And u have to check for all related conditions and see if she has a CSF obstruction b4 u even consider surgery.
As for pain meds, they usually do not help, but her activity level can help, as what we do and how we do it can be a trigger .
Stop by the chiari forum and depending if ur DD is over age 13 she can join us as well, it helps to talk to others with the same condition so she does not feel alone.