chiari malformation pain

[chiarijimi]

I have had 2 surgeries for Chiari Malformation in 2006 and cervical fusion of C-4 and C-5 in Oct of 2010.  My symptoms have never gone away completely.  I experience constant headache pain with significant pain happening in my extremities.  The pain seems to navigate through my body and manifests for several days in one spot such as a shoulder or knee.  My hands are swollen and ache.  I have a constant ringing in my ears that has never stopped.  My faith in my doctors is dwindling fast, I have been on a gammat of drugs through the years and have not been on any narcotics in over 1 year.  I currently use holistic and homeopathic oils and herbs to try to get some relief.  My pain is increasing ten fold now.  I am 44 years old and have not worked since 2006 I have young children 14 and 10.  What do I do now??  I fear I may have developed a syrinx?????????

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there. The results of your decompression surgery depends on the severity of the Chiari malformation and the extent of the brain and nerve injury already done before the surgery. Though many derive relief of symptoms, about half of the patients continue with the residual effects of syringomyelia. You need to be followed up to monitor the CSF flow and syrinx site. Discuss with your surgeon your concerns and the best treatment options should be considered. Take care.

[rod44]

Hi, have you had an MRI of your brain & C spine done recently to check for problems and a Syrinx?

we have a CM community here on MedHelp if you would like to post this thread..... http://www.medhelp.org/forums/Chiari-Malformation/show/257?camp=


Ray