Newsletter Archives: By Date

Explore The Archives:
By Date
Research Updates
Personal Stories
Special Topics
Interviews

Education

Awareness

Research

Volunteer

Donate

Home

 

Search The Newsletter Archives

March, 2008 (Volume 6, Number 2) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor: 
Conquer Chiari, The Book
Research Updates:
*
Chiari Symptoms Can Come Back Years After Surgery
*
Details Of CSF Flow Used To Predict Symptom Recurrence
* Fluid Motion Inside Syrinx Predicts Post-op Shrinkage
* Study Shows Most Syrinxes Shrink Significantly Three Months After Surgery
* Chiari & Restless Leg Syndrome
* Chronic Pain Disrupts The Brain's Natural Activity State

Ray's Corner: 
Clarifying Some Important Treatment Options
Good News Story: 
Minimally Invasive Surgery Worked For Traci
Fundraising: 
Kansas Walk Raises Money & Awareness, Kansas Passes Awareness Resolution
In The News

* Extreme Home Makeover to Rebroadcast Chiari Episode
* FONAR Upright MRI Shows Chiari Related Cranial Settling

January, 2008 (Volume 6, Number 1) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor: 
Major Research Conference Planned
Research Updates:
*
Multi-generational Chiari Family Adds To Confusion
* Study Identifies Features Of Chiari Related Scoliosis
* SM Related Scoliosis May Be Due To Spinal Muscle Denervation
* Surgery Has No Effect On Cervical Range Of Motion
* Connective Tissue Disorders Linked To Chiari In Some Patients
Special Report: 
The Year In Research, 2007
Ray's Corner: 
Dare I "Suggest" Hypnosis?
Good News Story: 
Ryan DeCarlo Didn't Let Chiari Get In The Way Of His Sports
Fundraising: 
Chiari Walk In Kansas; New Fundraiser Form
Community News
Woman Looking To Start Delaware/Maryland Support Group; Poems On The Web

November, 2007 (Volume 5, Number 6) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  The Promise Of Stem Cells
Research Updates:
*
How Useful Is Measuring CSF Flow?
* More Findings Involving Chiari & Abnormal Skull Geometry
* Large Study Finds 80% Improve With Surgery
* CSF Flow Used To Evaluate Surgical Success
* Exercise As Good As Medication For Treating Major Depressive Disorder

Ray's Corner: 
Chiari & The Common Cold - Misery Loves Company
From The Blogosphere:
  Dr. Oro On Chiari & Contact Sports
Perspectives: 
*
Electrical Implant Provides Pain Relief
* A Great Conversation Starter
Fundraising: 
Leverage Your Talents; Shelby's Art Raises Money For Research
Foundation News
Research Grant Awarded To Look For New Chiari Test; Chiari Awareness Resolution In PA
Letter To The Editor: 
Focus On The Positive

September, 2007 (Volume 5, Number 5) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor: 
Setbacks
Research Updates:
*
Study Shows Promise For Conservative Surgery In Adults
* Can Posterior Fossa Volume Indicate Symptom Severity?
* Complex Chiari Cases Have Poorer Outcomes
* Extensive Laminectomy May Increase Risk For Spinal Problems
* New Dural Patch Found To Be Safe And Effective

Ray's Corner: 
Everyone Needs A Hug
In The Spotlight: 
Dr. Raymond Sekula, Neurosurgeon
Good News Story: 
College Student, Competitive Swimmer, Chiari Conqueror
Fundraising: 
Miniature Golf Outing Can Be Fun & Easy To Plan
News:
*
Ohio Advocate Gets Local Press For Awareness Event
* Ohio Awareness Event Big Success

July, 2007 (Volume 5, Number 4) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  Thoughts On The Research Symposium
Research Updates:
*
Looking For Signs Of Chiari In Idiopathic Scoliosis
* Urgent Surgery Is Sometimes Necessary For Chiari
* Timing Important In Treating Tethered Cord

Research Symposium Updates:

* Failed Adult Chiari Surgery
* Bring On The Bioengineers

Ray's Corner: 
Back To The Future
Fundraising: 
*
Ohio Walk A Big Success, 4H Washes Cars, Chiari On Facebook
*
Tips For Organizing A Chiari Walk
Daily Living: 
Chiari and Employment
You Gotta Laugh!!
A Veggie Tale
In The News:
*
CM/SM Research Study Looking For Participants
* Dural Patch Recalled

* Faster Acting Antidepressants Closer To Becoming A Reality

May, 2007 (Volume 5, Number 3) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor: 
 Research Symposium To Be Webcast
Research Updates:

* Majority of Chiari Patients Suffer From Sleep Apnea
* Chiari II Affects Normal Eye Movements
* Surgical Technique Alleviates Serious Complication After Decompression
* Cognitive Suggestions Can Reduce Pain
* Syringomyelia Disrupts Pain & Temperature Sensing

Case Study: 
Chiari Causes Psychotic Episode
Ray's Corner: 
Tips For Fighting Chiari Related Depression
In The Spotlight: 
Dr. Ghassan Bejjani Discusses How Chiari Surgery Has Evolved Over The Last Few Years
Good News Story: 
Long Journey Ends In Success
Perspectives: 
Physician Heal Thyself
Conquering Chiari: 
Woman Gets Chiari Noticed In Michigan
You Gotta Laugh!! 
That Did Not Just Happen
Letters To The Editor: 
Acquired Chiari; A Nurse From New Zealand
In The News:
* American Pain Society Announces Clinical Centers Of Excellence
* Naturally Produced Analgesia Holds Promise For New Pain Drug

March, 2007 (Volume 5, Number 2) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  Keep Your Own Medical Records
Research Updates:
* Scoliosis Affects Surgical Outcomes In Adults
* Limited Surgery Shown To Be Effective In Children
* Surgical Outcomes For Adult Tethered Cord Surgery
* Chiari Linked To Lipomyelomeningocele
* Study Examines Feasibility Of Programming Shunts At Home
* Simple Idea To Improve Chiari Surgery
* Possible Biomarkers Found For Tethered Cord
Ray's Corner:  Look To The Founding Fathers For Inspiration
Perspectives: 
My Brain Is A Mess...A Poem by Andrea Oliver
In The News:
* Thinking With The Spinal Cord?
* Human Stem Cell Transplants Repair Rat Spinal Cords
* Doctors Urged To Change The Way They Prescribe Painkillers

January, 2007 (Volume 5, Number 1) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor: 
Conquer Chiari Goals For 2007
Research Updates:

* Study Compares Surgical Techniques
* Cerebellar Tonsils Removed During Surgery Shown To Be Abnormal
* New Study Casts Doubt On Tethered Cord Causing Chiari
* Neuropathic Pain Can Cause Cognitive Problems
* Pregabalin Effective In Treating Neuropathic Pain

Special Report: 
The Year In Research 2006, Same As It Ever Was 
Ray's Corner:  Marathon Stories From Ray, Annie and Adele
In The Spotlight: 
Grant Winner Dr. Koentges Discusses His Research
Perspectives:  There Is Nothing Wrong With Your Son
In The News:
* Chronic Back Pain Linked To Changes In The Brain
* Snail Toxin May Lead To New Painkiller
* Discovered Molecule Drives Nerve Regrowth
* Uric Acid May Heal Spinal Cord Injuries

November, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 10) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  One Doctor At A Time
Research Updates:

* Zeroing In On A Chiari Gene
* Minimal Tethered Cord Shows Abnormal Anatomy
* MRI Documents Acquired Chiari Due To Fatty Filum
* Comprehensive Pain Programs Benefit Patients
* Stem Cells Restore Some Function To Spinal Injured Rats

Ray's Corner: 
Good Things Come In Small Packages
From The Desk Of Dr. Bland: 
Connective Tissue Is The Foundation Of Our Bodies
Foundation News: 
Conquer Chiari & Column Of Hope Award Research Grants; NYC Woman Raises Money For Research
In The Spotlight: 
Grant Winner Dr. Stoodley Discusses His Research
You Gotta Laugh: 
School House Humor
In The News:
* Australian Scientists Predict Major Medical Advances
* NIH Study Finds Genetic Component To Chronic Pain
* New Mechanism Underlying Neuropathic Pain Found
* Canadian Study Shows The High Toll Of Neuropathic Pain

September, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 9) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor: 
Ten Ways To Stay Positive
Research Updates:

* Small Posterior Fossa Linked To Chiari Related Syringomyelia
* Sleep Apnea Causes Brain Changes In Children
* Chiari Patients May Be At Greater Risk With Head Trauma
* Pulsed Radiofrequency Used To Treat Neuropathic Pain

Ray's Corner: 
Does Reiki Deliver The Healing Touch (Part II)?
Special Report:
  Controversy Surrounds Occult Tethered Cord Syndrome
Foundation News: 
Fundraisers and Research Grants
Conquer Chiari In The News: 
Aiming To Conquer (As Published In Northern Connection Magazine)
In The News:
* One Big MRI
* Prenatal Vitamins Dramatically Reduce Birth Defects
* Warning Signs Of Painkiller Abuse
* Building A Bridge To Restore Mobility

August, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 7&8) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor: 
Lessons From The Doctor's Office
Research Updates:

* Using Cine-MRI To Predict Surgical Outcome

* Ultrasound Can Determine Extent Of Surgery Necessary
* Chiari Related Memory & Learning Problems
* With Chiari, Standing Up Can Cause Problems
Case Study: 
Chiari In The Family
Ray's Corner: 
Does Reiki Deliver The Healing Touch?
Family Impact: 
Facing The Challenges Of Being A Caregiver, By Nancy Scotton
From The NIH: 

* Neurons From Stem Cells Restore Function In Paralyzed Rats
* New Medication Treats Depression In Just Hours
In The News:
* Virtual Reality Reduces Medical Procedure Pain
* Survey Reveals Devastating Impact Of Chronic Pain

June, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 6) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:
  Reasons For Hope
Research Updates:
* Study Identifies Cognitive Impact Of Chiari II

* Children With Chiari Symptoms Due To Shunting Found To Have Small Posterior Fossa Volume
* More Than Half Of Patients With Chronic, Disabling Spinal Problems Suffer From Major Depression
* New Syrinx Theory Attempts To Explain All Types Of Syringomyelia
Ray's Corner: 
Recovering From Chiari Surgery
From The NIH:
Small Nerve Fibers Key To Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Viewpoints: 
Overcoming Arrogance And Ignorance Of Chiari
In The News:
* Music Can Reduce Chronic Pain & Depression
* Parents Of Children With Rare Diseases Benefit From Support Programs
* Self Acupressure Technique Addresses Chronic Pain
* New, Noncommercial Website Provides Up To Date Info On Pain Management

May, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 5) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:
  Opening The Research Front In The Battle To Conquer Chiari
Research Updates:

* Treating Chiari Related Eye Problems
* High Rate Of Chiari Found In Pseudo-Tumor Patients
Fish Oil A Good Alternative To Anti-Inflammatories For Pain
* Newspaper Coverage Of Neurological Conditions Stigmatizing and Error Prone

Case Study: 
Effects Of Minor Head Trauma
Ray's Corner: 
Chiari Is The Duck-Billed Platypus Of Diseases
Perspectives: 
"Asymptomatic" Chiari, Good News Or Bad News?
In The News:

* Implantable Device May Lead To Nerve Regeneration In Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
* New Imaging Method Has Potential To Be Portable
* Stem Cell Advance In Repairing Spinal Cord Injuries
* Chronic Pain Has A Major Impact In The Workplace
* Exercise Based Treatment For Dyslexia Branches Out

April, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 4) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  Get Help If You Need It
Research Updates:
* How Many People Have Chiari/Syringomyelia?
* Abnormal EEG Results Indicate Chiari's Subtle Effects
* Decompression Surgery Helps Chiari Related Scoliosis
* Computer Analysis Examines Post-Traumatic Syringomyelia

Case Study: 
Chiari In Military Personnel
Ray's Corner: 
Fake Drugs - A Growing Problem To Watch For
Family Impact: 
Caring For Children With Complex Medical Conditions, By Sharon Feder
Special Report: 
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension aka Pseudotumor Cerebri
In The News:
* New Strategies Help Depressed Patients Become Symptom Free
* Gene Influences Antidepressant Response
* Researchers Restore Vision In Blinded Hamsters
* Vendors Partner To Offer Ceiling Mounted MRI

March, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 3) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  What Makes A Good Doctor
Research Updates:

* Do You Know What's In Your Head?  Study Compares Dural Graft Materials
* New Theory Identifies The Post-Syrinx Syndrome
* Two Different Techniques Analyze Chiari Related CSF Pressure
* Some People Are Able To Move Past Chronic Pain; How Do They Do It?

Case Study: 
Chiari Linked To Fabry Disease
Ray's Corner: 
Chiari & Aerobic Exercise
Viewpoints -
The Journey From Grief To Growth:
* A Mom's Point Of View
* A Daughter's Point Of View

Good News Story: 
3,000 Miles To Success For A Young Boy
In The News:

* Some People In Pain Unlikely To Seek Treatment
* New Book Says Look In The Spice Rack For Pain Relief
* FDA Approves New Patch For Depression
* Nerve Jumper Cables Engineered For Spinal Cord Repair

February, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 2) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  Update From Dr. Lazareff; Spokesperson; Parent's Column
Research Updates:
* Why Do Some People With Syringomyelia Develop Central Pain?
* Decompression Surgery Helps Chiari Related Sleep Apnea
* CSF Velocity Changes With Age

Case Study: 
Chiari And Growth Hormone Deficiency
Ray's Corner: 
What Would It Take To Develop A Chiari Drug?
In The Spotlight: 
Dr. Clare Rusbridge, Veterinarian, Discusses What We Can Learn About Chiari From The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Family Impact: 
Marital Stress Can Affect Healing
You Gotta Laugh!! 
Memories
In The News:
* Cause Of Ongoing Spontaneous Pain Discovered
* Master Genetic Switch Found For Chronic Pain
* Survey Finds Millions At Risk From Side Effects Of OTC Pain Medicines
* Individuals Honored For Their Contributions To Pain Management

January, 2006 (Volume 4, Number 1) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  Reasonable Accommodations
Research Updates:
* More Evidence That Pseudotumor Cerebri Plays A Role In Failed Chiari Surgeries
* Is Chiari 0 For Real?  Research Shows Small Posterior Fossa In Chiari 0 Patients
* Thinking Away Pain:  MRI Enables People To Control Pain
* Syringomyelia Without Chiari Is Difficult To Treat

Case Study: 
Spinal Realignment Resolves Chiari Symptoms
Special Report:  
The Year In Research - 2005
From The Desk Of Dr. Bland: 
Chiari & Sleep Apnea
Good News Story: 
Moving On With Life
You Gotta Laugh!! 
Things I Never Thought I Would Do, Say, Or Hear
In The News:

* World's First Room Sized MRI
* New MRI Technology Less Sensitive To Movement
* Spinal Cord Patients Receive Own Stem Cells For Treatment
* Mirrors Trick The Mind And Help Alleviate Pain

Letters To The Editor:
  Weighing In On Cranial Sacral Therapy

November, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 11) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  Medical Mistakes A Key Reason To Be An Educated Patient
Foundation News: 
What Is Conquering Chiari Worth To You?
Research Updates:

* Total CSF Flow May Predict Surgical Outcome
* Tracing The Origins Of Chiari
* Dogs Provide Chiari Genetic Clues
* Patients Define Success In This Study

Complementary & Alternative Medicine:
Craniosacral Therapy 
Case Studies: 
Spontaneous Resolution Of Chiari
The Chiari Experience (New Feature!): 
What Is The Most Inappropriate Thing Someone Has Said To You?
In The News:

* New Therapy For Spinal Cord Injuries
* Simple Test May Help Predict Pain After Surgery
* Local Anesthetics Effective For Neuropathic Pain

October, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 10) [Printable Version]
Message From The Editor:  Pressure Building Against Widespread MRI Use
Research Updates:

* Study Looks At  Abnormal Gag Reflex In Chiari Children

* What Is Cerebellar Affective Disorder And What Does It Mean For Chiari
* Chronic Pain Influences Religious & Spiritual Beliefs

Daily Living: 
Link Between Depression & Physical Symptoms Is Important For Chiari Patients To Understand
From The Desk Of Dr. Regina Bland: 
Let's Think About Thinking - The Cognitive Effects Of Chiari
In The Spotlight:
 Dr. Chris Hughes, Professor of Physical Therapy, Discusses Rehabilitation Issues And Chiari
Case Study: 
Severe Breathing Problems
Perspectives:  Stories Of Chiari Kids & Their Families
* Hoping A Second Surgery Will Lead To A Normal Childhood
* Four Years Of Frustration
* More Thoughts On Deciding What Is Right For Your Child
In The News:

* Cerebellum Shown To Be Important To Thinking And Behavior
* Nerve Cell Discovery May Lead To New Pain Drugs
* Long Walk Raises Awareness Of Chronic Pain

September, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 9)
Message From The Editor: 
Momentum Is Building
Research Updates:

* Chiari Link To Small Posterior Fossa Confirmed In Adults

* Chiari Patients Shown To Have Lower Intracranial Compliance 
* Decompression Surgery Improves Eye Symptoms
* Accepting Chronic Pain Can Improve Quality Of Life

Case Study: 
Chiari & Trigeminal Neuralgia
From The Desk Of Regina S Bland, MD, FAAP: 
September Is Pain Awareness Month
Perspectives: 
Deciding What Is Right For Your Child
Conquering Chiari: 
Laurie Sobas Launches "Coins For Chiari" To Raise Money In Honor Of Her Son
Foundation News: 
Dr. Chris Hughes, Professor Of Physical Therapy, Joins The Scientific Advisory Team
In The News:

* Gradient Guides Nerve Growth Down The Spinal Cord
* Embryonic Stem Cells Accumulate Genetic Changes
* Potential Alternative To Embryonic Stem Cells Discovered

Letters To The Editor: 
Your Feedback

August, 2005 (Volume 3, Numbers 7&8)
Message From The Editor: 
Finding A Doctor...You Have To Do The Work
Research Updates:
* Damage To Cerebellum Affects Cognitive Ability In Children
* Some Good News For Chiari II Families
* Review Shows Laser Therapy Effective For Chronic Neck Pain
* Family Physicians Don't Feel Well Trained To Handle Chronic Pain

Case Study: 
Dramatic Improvement In Scoliosis After Chiari Surgery
Conquering Chiari: 
Ray D'Alonzo, Chiari Patient, Will Culminate His Recovery By Running The Air Force Marathon And Raising Money For Research
Conquering Chiari: 
Ponn Sabra, Women's Empowerment Author, Was Deeply Affected By Chiari, Now She Is Fighting Back By Donating A Portion of The Proceeds From Her New Book
Foundation News: 
Dr. Stephen Hulley, Chair of Epidemiology & Biostatistics At The University of California,  San Francisco Joins The Conquer Chiari Team As A Scientific Advisor
In The News:

* Low Level Laser Receives FDA Approval For Pain Relief
* Combination Therapy Leads To Partial Recovery In Paralyzed Rats
* Purdue Scientists Find Key Chemical In Spinal Cord Injury Process
* Study Finds That Medical Devices Used In Children Are Not Effectively Monitored
* Adult Stem Cells Able To Multiply, Seen As Important Breakthrough

You Gotta Laugh!! 
Bigger Brain Is Better
Letters To The Editor: 
Your Feedback

June, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 6)
Message From The Editor: 
It's Time To Conquer Chiari
Research Updates:
* Strong Link Between Chiari And Sleep Apnea
* Case Highlights The Complexity Of Chiari And Syringomyelia

* Review Of Post-Traumatic SM In England
Case Studies: 
Chiari Siblings In The UK; Spontaneous Resolution
Daily Living: 
Neuropathic Pain
In The Spotlight: 
The Incredible Story Of A Chiari Patient Who Battled An Addiction To Pain Meds For Years Before Finally Emerging Triumphant
In The Spotlight: 
Confluent Surgical Discusses Their Exciting New Product, DuraSeal, Which Helps Prevent CSF Leaks
Perspectives: 
An Athlete Faces Her Toughest Comeback Challenge
Perspectives: 
Would You Like A Cup Of Tea With Your Syrinx?
Fixing Broken Nerves:
* Stem Cell Treatment Improves Mobility After Spinal Cord Injury
* Preclinical Data Shows Promise For New Drug In Repairing Nerves
* Uncovering How The Nervous System Is Wired

In The News:
* Studies Show Doctors Practice Defensive Medicine To Avoid Suits
* Pain Groups Release Guide To Managing Chronic Pain
* FDA Changes Labeling Requirements For NSAID's

May, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 5)
Message From The Editor: 
A Second Chiari Revolution?
Research Updates:
* Surgical Technique Reduces Hospital Time And Costs
* CSF Flow In Children Before & After Surgery
* Between Chiari I & Chiari II
* Beliefs About Pain Strongly Influence Quality Of Life

Perspectives: 
No More Hospitals, No More Surgeries
Good  News Stories: 

* Disney Wish Comes True For 7-Year Old With Chiari
* The Greatest Joy
New Technologies & Treatments:
* Acorda Therapeutics Launches Drug To Treat Spasticity
*
FDA Approves DuraSeal To Prevent CSF Leaks
* FDA Approves Medtronic Rechargeable Neurostimulation System

Impact Of Chronic Pain:
* Study Shows That Pain Can Become A Disease Onto Itself
* Pain & Depression Create A Heavy Burden For Those Near Retirement
Stem Cells:
National Academies Releases Guidelines For Stem Cell Research
Complementary & Alternative Medicine:
* Some Health Plans Begin To Cover Complementary Care
* Physical Therapy Can Relieve Pain 

Letters To The Editor: 
Your Thoughts On The Surgery Webcast; 18 Years And Counting

April, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 4)
Message From The Editor: 
Thoughts On Surgery; In Memory of George DiClemente
Research Updates:
* Type Of Headache May Indicate If Surgery Is Required
* Chiari & Pregnancy
* Is There A Difference Between Real And Imagined Pain?

Family Impact:
* Spouses Disagree On Level Of Pain & Disability
* How Nurses Can Help When A Child Is In The Hospital

Good  News Story: 
Chiari Didn't Stop This Lacrosse Player...By Marc Meyers
Scientific Breakthroughs:
* Scientists Uncover How The Spine Develops Properly
* New Technique Enables Cells To Create Their Own MRI Contrast Agent

Repairing Nerve Cells:
* Motor Neurons Created From Stem Cells
* Harvard Researchers Identify Genes Responsible For Specific Nerve Cells

In The News:
* Advances In Treatment Of Intractable Pain
* Dr. Lazareff, Pediatric Neurosurgeon, Selected For Endowed Chair
* Obesity Threatens To Cut US Life Expectancy

March, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 3)
Message From The Editor: 
Paying The Piper
Research Updates:
* New Surgery Proposed For Chiari
* Surgery Improves Quality Of Life For About 80% Of Patients
* Studying CSF Flow To Predict Surgical Outcome

Case Studies:  The Many Faces Of Chiari
Living With Pain:
* Chronic Pain Linked To High Blood Pressure
* Fish Oil & Natural Food Substance Fight Depression

COX-2 Controversy Continues:
* Researchers Failed To Gauge Heart Risks Despite Warnings
* FDA Panel Criticized For Conflict Of Interest
* FDA Establishes New Drug Safety Panel

New Chronic Pain Treatments:
* Extended Release Pain Med Enters Phase II Clinical Trials
* European Commission Approves Marketing Of PRIALT
* New Pain Patch Launched in UK

Stem Cells:
* Survey Shows Strong Support For Federal Stem Cell Bill
* Stem Cell Therapy For Spinal Cord Injury

February, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 2)
Message From The Editor: 
Want To See A Chiari Surgery?
Research Updates:
* Rats Reveal Clues To The Damage That Syrinxes Cause
* Looking Back:  When Is A Syrinx Not A Syrinx?
* Exercise Program Yields Mixed Results For Chronic Neck Pain

News Alert: 
Chiari Surgery To Be Broadcast Live On Web
In The Spotlight: 
Dr. Stephen Fletcher, Pediatric Neurosurgeon, Shares His Thoughts On Chiari And The Upcoming Live Surgery
Perspectives: 
Sabrina Says Listen To Your Body
Daily Living:  
Nearly Half Of All Personal Bankruptcies Due To Medical Problems
You Gotta Laugh!! 
You Want What For The Pain??
In The News: 
* New Contrast Agent Could Allow MRI To See Individual Cells
* Survey Shows Lowering Health Care Costs Is Public's Top Priority
*
NIH Tries To Accelerate General Access To Published Research
* NIH Announces New Ethics Guidelines For Their Researchers
* Public Worries About Drug Side Effects
* Older Adults Are Better Able To Cope With Chronic Pain

January, 2005 (Volume 3, Number 1)
Message From The Editor:  A Bad Month For Pain Sufferers
Research Updates:
* When Is Decompression Surgery Before Scoliosis Surgery Necessary?
* Researchers In India Look For Predictors Of Surgical Outcome
* Chronic Pain Is Hard On The Brain

Daily Living:   Survey Highlights The Factors Involved In Revealing A Chronic Illness To An Employer
Good News Story:  Nova Lee Lives With Chiari, It Doesn't Live With Her
Perspectives:  Adriana From Australia Highlights The Risks Of Spinal Manipulation
Safety Alert:
* NIH Stops Use Of Celebrex In Cancer Trial
* NIH Suspends Use Of Naproxen And Celebrex In Large Alzheimer's Trial
* FDA Recommends Limited Use Of COX-2 Drugs

In The News: 
* Fish Oils A Natural Alternative To COX-2 Drugs?
* New Dural Substitute Receives FDA Clearance
*
Research Group Looks At Spinal Cord Injury And Weight Gain
* An "Attractive" Approach For Repairing Central Nervous System Injury
* Scientists Don't Agree On What A Stem Cell Is

Letters To The Editor: 
Your Feedback

December, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 12)
Message From The Editor: 
The Promise Of Technology And Medicine
Research Updates:
* Intracranial Compliance Linked To Surgical Success
* To Open or Not To Open The Dura; That Is The Question
* More Evidence That Acupuncture Is Effective And Safe

Special Report: 
The Year In Research
Good News Story: 
Relieved Parents Share Their Grown Daughter's Happy Outcome
Perspectives: 
Sue Martin Philosophizes About Chiari And Her Life
In The News: 
* Survey Shows Strong Support For Stem Cell Research Among Bush Voters
* Research Review Act Passes Congress
*
Replicating An Eel's Nerve Circuitry Helps Paralysis Research
* Altered Nerve Cell Receptors Linked To Chronic Pain
* Mice Grow New Nerve Fibers After Spinal Injury

Letters To The Editor: 
Your Feedback

November, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 11)
Message From The Editor:  
Dr. Diane Mueller Joins The Board
Research Updates:
* New Theory Speculates That Compliance Is Key To Syringomyelia And Alzheimer's
* Botox May Help With Neck Pain Due To Surgery
* Looking Back:  Milhorat Redefines Chiari

Case Studies: 
Acute, Idiopathic SM
In The Spotlight: 
Nancy Fontaine, Counselor, Chiari Mom & Chiari Patient Discusses How Chiari Affects Families, The Benefits Of Counseling, And Her Own Experience
Family Impact: 
Emotionally Focused Therapy Helps Families Cope With A Chronically Ill Child
Complementary & Alternative Medicine: 
Reflexology - Sure A Foot Massage Feels Good, But Can It Help With Chronic Pain?
In The News: 
* Stem Cell Research Advances, Shows Increasing Promise
* Genetic Clues Found For Dandy-Walker Malformation
*
Patent Issued For Method Of Producing Adult Stem Cells
*
Phase II Trials Yield Positive Results For Neuropathic Pain Drug
*
UN Health Agency Supports Global Effort To Relieve Chronic Pain

October, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 10)
Message From The Editor: 
A Word About Acceptance And Christopher Reeve
Research Updates:
* Syringomyelia In Twins, With And Without Chiari
* Linking Chiari, Idiopathic Scoliosis, And Genetics
* Talking About Chronic Pain

Family Impact:
* How Chronic Illness Affects Partners
* Disease, Disability & Marriage

Daily Living: 
Understanding The Risks Of Common Painkillers
You Gotta Laugh!!
Sibling Rivalry
You Gotta Laugh II!!
Don't Anger The Chiari God
In The News: 
* Merck Pulls Popular Vioxx Off The Market Due To Safety Concerns
* Study Finds Imagery Can Reduce Children's Post-operative Pain
* Scientists Gather To Discuss Using Stem Cells From Fat Tissue

*
'It Takes Nerve' Launched To Raise Awareness About Neuropathic Pain
* New Drug May Reduce Serious Side Effects Of NSAIDs
* NIH Funds Development Of Nanostructures As Neural Growth Scaffolds

* CRPF Announces Promising Research Using Microarray Technology

Letters To The Editor: 
A Request For Help; Recommending Surgery

September, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 9)
Message From The Editor: 
Searching For A Spokesperson
Research Updates:
* Rickets Provides Chiari Clues
* Survey Shows Doctors Not Well Trained To Handle Chronically Ill Patients
* Trying To Understand Why Some Syrinxes Don't Go Away

Case Studies: 
Neck Fracture After Decompression Surgery
Daily Living: 
The Nuts & Bolts Of Spinal Anatomy
Complementary & Alternative Medicine: 
Is Laughter The Best Medicine?
Perspectives I: 
Going To Battle With My Granddaughter
Perspectives II: 
Facing The Possibility Of Another Surgery
In The News: 
* Shocking The Pain Away:  Electrical Stimulation Provides Pain Relief
* ATP Plays A Role In Spinal Injuries
*
Stretching Nerves To The Limit

August, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 7&8): 
Message From The Editor: 
Foundation News & Update
Research Updates:
* Brazilian Study Details Which Symptoms Improve With Surgery
* New Insight Into The Mechanism Underlying Chronic Neck Pain
* Duration Of Symptoms Before Surgery Influences Outcome

Case Studies I: 
Link With MS; Giving Birth With Chiari
Case Studies II:
Idiopathic SM In A Football Player; SM Among The Elderly
Complementary & Alternative Medicine: 
Does Distant Healing Work?
Perspectives: 
A Photo Essay...By George Weir
Good News Story: 
Report From A Former Syringomyelia Patient
You Gotta Laugh!! 
Narrow Minded
In The News: 
* Patient Groups Lobby For Expanded Stem Cell Research
* Nerve Cells Regenerated In Injured Rats

* Scientists Uncover Molecular Pathway Underlying Nerve Growth
*
Pfizer Receives Approval To Market New Neuropathic Pain Drug In Europe

June, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 6): 
Message From the Editor: 
One Year Later
Research Updates:
* New Theory On How Syrinxes Form
* Many Americans Turn To Prayer For Health Concerns
* Study Identifies Types Of Scoliosis That Indicate Chiari

Case Studies: 
Football, Car Accident, and Chiari; Carpal Tunnel Symptoms
Technology: 
Stand-Up MRI Allows Child To Be Scanned On Mother's Lap
Perspectives I: 
Chiari And Me, By Rhodora K. Lee Ho, MD
Perspectives II: 
No, She's Not Fine!
In The Spotlight: 
Mark Kane, President Of The American Syringomyelia Alliance Project, Discusses The Organization's Mission, Goals, And Services
In The News: 
* More Than One-Third Of US Adults Use Complementary And Alternative Medicine
* Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation Awards $2 Million In Research Grants

* New Device Aims To Reduce Chance Of Nerve Damage During Spinal Surgery
* Researchers Turn Fat Cells Into Nerve Cells

You Gotta Laugh!! 
Popping The Question

May, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 5): 
Message From the Editor:  A New Beginning, A Better Newsletter
Research Updates:
* Large Study Reveals Wide Range Of Chiari Symptoms
* Survey Shows How Doctors Worldwide Treat Chiari
* The High Cost Of Neuropathic Pain

In The News: 
* NIH Says Animal Studies Show Promise In Treating Chronic Pain
* First Annual National Neurosurgery Awareness Week
* Magnetic Treatment May Help People With Spinal Cord Injuries
* Survey Shows Strong Voter Support For Expanding Stem Cell Research
* New Drug Shows Promise In Treating Neuropathic Pain

Perspectives: 
See A Specialist If You Can...By Melissa Kienow
Book Review:
 A Life Larger Than Pain...Reviewed By Kathryn Quintana
Good News Story: 
Susan Troutman...Nurse, Student, Mom, And Good News Story
You Gotta Laugh!! 
Post-surgical Ramblings
Letters To The Editor: 
Reader Feedback

April, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 4): 
Message From the Editor:  You Are More Than Your Disease
Research Updates:
* Taking The Unknown Out Of Idiopathic Syringomyelia
* Large Study Examines Surgical Outcomes In Children
* Does The Shape Of A Syrinx Predict Post-surgical Improvement?

Case Studies: 
Tumor Causes Chiari And A Syrinx

In The News: 
* Boy Recovers From Brain Surgery
* American Pain Foundation Launches Initiative To Improve Communication Between Pain Patients And Providers

* Bush Administration Announces Crackdown On Prescription Drug Abuse
In The Spotlight:
  Carol Greco, PhD, Mind-Body Researcher And Pain Expert Discusses Meditation, Biofeedback And More
Perspectives: 
Saying No To Surgery
You Gotta Laugh!! 
Not My Hair!
Letters To The Editor: 
Reader Feedback

March, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 3):
Message From the Editor: 
Bridging The Patient-Doctor Communication Gap (Part 3 of 3)
Research Updates:
* The Importance Of  Cine MRI
* Helping Children Deal With Post-Operative Pain
* New Theory On How Syrinxes Form

Case Studies: 
Chronic Hypertension; Cluster Headache
In The News: 
* New Chronic Pain Drug Enters Clinical Trials
* Neurotoxin May Reduce Chronic Pain From Spinal Cord Injury
* Reduced Scarring Helps Nerves Grow Through Spinal Injuries
* Multi-million Dollar Grant Funds Experimental Procedure To Stop Paralysis

In The Spotlight:
  Dr. Mark Gorchesky, Pain Specialist, Pain Patient, And Pain Advocate Shares His Unique Insights On Pain Management
Good News Story:
Debbie Banahasky, Chiari Class Of '82
Perspectives: 
Juggling Five Kids & Chiari

February, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 2):
Message From the Editor: 
Bridging The Patient-Doctor Communication Gap (Part 2 of 3)
Research Updates:
* Is Surgery Necessary If There Are No Symptoms?
* It Can Be Hard To Get A Good Night's Sleep With Chiari.
* Decompression Surgery Reduces CSF Velocity.

Case Studies Part I: 
Is It Chiari or ALS?, The Link With Spina Bifida
Case Studies Part II: 
Syringomyelia A Century Ago
And The Good News Is: 

* Scientists Grow Neurons Using Nanostructures
* Stem Cells Found In Adults May Repair Nerves
* Neurologists Create A Font of Human Nerve Cells
Perspectives: 
Why Bedside Manner Matters
You Gotta Laugh!! 
Syringo-humor
Letters To The Editor: 
Your Feedback

January, 2004 (Volume 2, Number 1):
Message From the Editor: 
Bridging The Patient-Doctor Communication Gap (Part 1 of 3)
Research Updates:
* Studying One Man's Experience With Syringomyelia.
* How Neck & Arm Pain Affect Overall Health.
* Looking To The Ear For Guidance.
* Chiari, Syringomyelia, Scoliosis, and Surgery.

Case Studies: 
Hiccups; Rapid Onset Syringomyelia
Community News: 
Two New Dural Patch Products
In the Spotlight: 
Cook Biotech Discusses Their New Dural Substitute Product, Durasis
Perspectives: 
My Husband Has What??
Special Report: 
Measuring Pain, Disease, and Disability

December, 2003 (Volume 1, Number 5):
Message From the Editor:  A Vision For The Future
Research Updates:
*  Trouble Swallowing May Signal Chiari In Very Young Children.
Predicting Post-Traumatic Syringomyelia.
Using Ultrasound To Make Surgery Patient Specific.
How Much Do Opioids Help With Chronic Pain?
In the Spotlight: 
Dr. Ghassan Bejjani, Neurosurgeon and Chiari Researcher
Community News: 
New Drug Coming For Neuropathic Pain
Daily Living: 
Neurontin
Perspectives: 
It's Just Tension
You Gotta Laugh!
Kids Say The Darnedest Things
Letters To The Editor:
What The Readers Are Saying

November, 2003 (Volume 1, Number 4):
Message From the Editor: 
Walking the tightrope
Research Updates:
* Looking at how people combat chronic pain.
* Does the type of dural graft material matter?
* Tight cisterna magna may account for some idiopathic SM cases.
Case Studies:
  Sometimes healing gets in the way; Rapid Chiari onset
In the Spotlight (Part 1): 
Dr. Paolo, of the University of South Florida, discusses acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
In the Spotlight (Part 2):  Thomas Ost, Licensed Acupuncture Practitioner with the UPMC Center for Complementary Medicine, discusses acupuncture and Western medicine
Daily Living:  Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Special Report: 
My Acupuncture Experience
Perspectives: 
View from Montana
You Gotta Laugh!: 
Peaches, the radioactive cat

October, 2003 (Volume 1, Number 3):
Message From the Editor: 
Managing Your Doctor
Research Updates:
* Trying to identify why surgeries fail.
* Treatment options after failed surgery.
* Can syrinxes resolve on their own?
* What can be learned from 130 Chiari kids?
Case Studies:
  Traction for SM, Medicine for a Cough Headache
In the Spotlight: 
Dr. Frank Keefe, Health Psychologist and Pain Researcher
Perspectives: 
A Parent's Hope
Sounding Board: 
Are there any positives?
Book Review: 
The Truth About Chronic Pain:  Patients and Professionals on How to Face It, Understand It, Overcome It...by Arthur Rosenfeld

September, 2003 (Volume 1, Number 2):
Message From the Editor: 
Let's raise the bar on defining success.
Research Updates:
*
Can testing during surgery help resolve the surgical debate?
*
Looking for predictors of surgical success.

* How to treat syringomyelia related scoliosis in children.
* Anesthesia issues during labor for women with Chiari.

Case Studies:
  Skydiving, bad elbows, and labor management.
Community News: 
New Director at NINDS, ASAP Annual Conference
In the Spotlight: 
Dr. Frank Loth, Bioengineer
Daily Living: 
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Sounding Board: 
Are there any positives?
You Gotta Laugh!: 
There once was a man...

August, 2003 (Volume 1, Number 1):
Message From the Editor: 
Welcome to Chiari & Syringomyelia News
Research Updates:
*
New surgical technique attempts to minimize trauma for pediatric patients.
*
What causes the dreaded Chiari cough headache?
*
New fluid flow model may shed light on post-traumatic syrinx formation.
*
Is the shape of a Chiari malformation important?

In the Spotlight: 
Dr. Marcy Speer, Genetic Researcher, looks for a Chiari gene
Daily Living: 
The neurological exam - What do all those tests mean?
Perspectives: 
Dancing with a Syrinx
Sounding Board: 
Not Knowing Is The Hardest Part
You Gotta Laugh!: 
Do Your Tonsils Hang Low??
Letters to the Editor: 
Your Feedback

Give The Gift Of Knowledge:  Please Support Chiari & Syringomyelia News

Home | About Us | Links | Donate | Volunteer | Search
Education | Awareness | Research | Privacy Policy

Disclaimer:  This publication is intended for informational purposes only and may or may not apply to you.  The editor and publisher are not doctors and are not engaged in providing medical advice.   Always consult a qualified professional for medical care.  This publication does not endorse any doctors, procedures, or products.

© 2003-2007 C&S Patient Education Foundation