September is Chiari Awareness Month!

What is Chiari Malformation?

Chairi Malformation is a brain disorder where the cerebellum (the bottom part of the brain), grows downwards, putting pressure on the brain, skull and spinal cord. This can cause serious symptoms ranging from headaches to dizziness, numbness, and loss of muscle control.

What can Cause Chiari Malformation?

CM can happen during pregnancy, or later in life; either through defects during fetal development, or through traumatic injury or disease. When the defects causing CM are present at birth, it is called primary or congenital Chiari malformation.  CM can also be caused later in life if too much  spinal fluid is drained from the lumbar or thoracic areas of the spine. This can happen because of traumatic injury, disease, or infection.  When CM is caused later in life, it is usually called acquired or secondary Chiari malformation.  Primary Chiari malformation is much more common than secondary Chiari malformation.

How can I Raise Awareness and Help?

There are several charities dedicated to helping people with Chiari Malformation, and furthering research into prenatal testing and treatments. You can help by donating to the charities (evika.io is not affiliated with the charities mentioned in this article). Perhaps even easier, just share this article on social media to help raise awareness for Chiari.

Chiari Malformation Charities:

• Bobby Jones Chiari and Syringomyelia Foundation
• Conquer Chiari
• Chari Fund
• The ILC Foundation
• ASAP
• Ann Conroy Trust
• Brain Life’s list of charities

Useful Assistive Devices for Chiari Malformation

Here is a short list of assistive devices that may be useful for people with Chiari Malformation. Please consult with your healthcare provider to understand if devices are a good fit for your case.