# Complementary Therapies **URL:** https://forum.chiarisupport.org/c/symptoms/complementary-therapies/12.md?page=1 [Latest](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/latest.md) · [Categories](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/categories.md) · [Tags](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/tags.md) **Page:** 2 --- ## [MIndfulness and Chronic Pain - - From Psych Central](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/mindfulness-and-chronic-pain-from-psych-central/5855)
**Author:** [@Auburnm](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Auburnm)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [February 22, 2015, 9:52pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/mindfulness-and-chronic-pain-from-psych-central/5855 "2015-02-22T21:52:13Z")
Originally posted by Dancermom http://psychcentral.com/lib/using-mindfulness-to-approach-chronic-p... Using Mindfulness to Approach Chronic Pain By MARGARITA TARTAKOVSKY, M.S. Using Mindfulness to Approach Chronic Pain … --- ## [Visualization and Chronic Pain](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/visualization-and-chronic-pain/5854)
**Author:** [@Auburnm](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Auburnm)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [February 22, 2015, 9:50pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/visualization-and-chronic-pain/5854 "2015-02-22T21:50:29Z")
Originally posted by Dancermom. http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/imperfect-spirituality/201206/i... Imagine a Life Without Pain Visualization can help ease stress and manage chronic pain Published on June 9, 2012 by … --- ## [Visualization Exercise](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/visualization-exercise/5853)
**Author:** [@Auburnm](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Auburnm)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [February 22, 2015, 9:48pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/visualization-exercise/5853 "2015-02-22T21:48:27Z")
So you aren't feeling well and things are difficult. It is really easy when we are in pain or when things aren't going well to focus on the pain and how awful we feel. Believe me, I have been there and still struggle w… --- ## [Mind / Body Benefits](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/mind-body-benefits/5852)
**Author:** [@Auburnm](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Auburnm)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [February 22, 2015, 9:44pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/mind-body-benefits/5852 "2015-02-22T21:44:10Z")
Are you feeling stressed? In pain? Anxious or depressed? The focus of this group will be on mind-body exercises, such as simple meditation, visualization, muscle relaxation, deep breathing, etc. Study after study has … --- ## [Craniel sacrel therepy](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/craniel-sacrel-therepy/5287)
**Author:** [@lesley1](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/lesley1)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 23, 2014, 5:37pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/craniel-sacrel-therepy/5287 "2014-08-23T17:37:34Z")
Has anyone had this done? Is it bad for us or can it help --- ## [Such a "pain in the neck"...so is there a pillow?](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/such-a-pain-in-the-neck-so-is-there-a-pillow/5214)
**Author:** [@Stephanie2](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Stephanie2)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [August 15, 2014, 2:22am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/such-a-pain-in-the-neck-so-is-there-a-pillow/5214 "2014-08-15T02:22:56Z")
I am trying to come up with ways to cope with this darned chiari. I have a 12mm herniation and have yet to have my "neuro" in Knoxville respond to my repeated requests to a neurosurgeon for a consult on HOW to deal with … --- ## [Massage therapy](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/massage-therapy/5159)
**Author:** [@Natasha](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Natasha)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [July 6, 2014, 4:27pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/massage-therapy/5159 "2014-07-06T16:27:14Z")
Hi all! So I posted this awhile back but didn't get any answers so I'm just going to try and post again! Does anyone know if massage therapy is beneficial; does it help to alleviate the symptoms? I'm heading to univers… --- ## [Stumped in Maryland - looking for the right pillow (one that supports my neck.)](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/stumped-in-maryland-looking-for-the-right-pillow-one-that-supports-my-neck/5084)
**Author:** [@Jea](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Jea)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [June 7, 2014, 8:42pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/stumped-in-maryland-looking-for-the-right-pillow-one-that-supports-my-neck/5084 "2014-06-07T20:42:51Z")
I'm 58 and a mom. I was diagnosed and decompressed in 96. It's been a rocky road. What pillow works and what pillow doesn't work? What's been your experience? I had a good travel memory foam pillow, with a contour to sup… --- ## [Looking for Recommendation on headwear post surgery](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/looking-for-recommendation-on-headwear-post-surgery/2554)
**Author:** [@Deborah1](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Deborah1)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [December 4, 2012, 12:21pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/looking-for-recommendation-on-headwear-post-surgery/2554 "2012-12-04T12:21:12Z")
What's the best type of headwear post surgery? There are lots of websites advertising hats, scarves etc for chemo patients, but does anyone have a particular recommendation for chiari surgical patients? --- ## [Self advocate](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/self-advocate/724)
**Author:** [@Michael\_Sa](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Michael_Sa)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [January 20, 2012, 12:09am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/self-advocate/724 "2012-01-20T00:09:06Z")
what can anyone suggest to me for my PCP for the pain, light and noise sensitivity. My doc has already said I am my own best advocate because I am vocal with him and my wife helps me when I go so I do not forget anythi… --- ## [Non Surgical Options Discussion](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/non-surgical-options-discussion/603)
**Author:** [@Christine2](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Christine2)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [January 8, 2012, 7:56pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/non-surgical-options-discussion/603 "2012-01-08T19:56:54Z")
I just wanted to start a discussion about non surgical options that we can use, have used, and to share if they've been successful or not. I have tried PT with pretty good success. I have found that the exercises should … --- ## [Pillow talk. :)](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/pillow-talk/608)
**Author:** [@Sheleybean](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Sheleybean)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [December 8, 2011, 2:44am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/pillow-talk/608 "2011-12-08T02:44:57Z")
Am wondering what type of pillow I should be looking into for post-op comfort? I'm having decompression/lami on January 25th. All suggestions appreciated!! :slight\_smile: --- ## [Depression/Anxiety help](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/depression-anxiety-help/598)
**Author:** [@Jenn](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Jenn)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [December 7, 2011, 1:41am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/depression-anxiety-help/598 "2011-12-07T01:41:32Z")
I've been taking a natural product called Natra Sleep that contains Passion Flower, Lemon Balm, Valerian, Chamomile, and Suntheanin. It is marketed as a sleep aide, but I have no problem taking it during the day and is h… --- ## [Has anyone tried B12 shots?](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/has-anyone-tried-b12-shots/572)
**Author:** [@Tiffany\_P](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Tiffany_P)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [November 25, 2011, 5:11am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/has-anyone-tried-b12-shots/572 "2011-11-25T05:11:51Z")
I was wondering if anyone has tried B12 shots for numbness. I have alot of numbness and tingling in my arm and leg also nerve pain, my aunt is a nurse and she suggested taking B12 shots. She said that alot of diabetic … --- ## [Advice needed ...mattress](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/advice-needed-mattress/539)
**Author:** [@lori](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/lori)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [November 15, 2011, 8:05am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/advice-needed-mattress/539 "2011-11-15T08:05:20Z")
hi... hope you guys are all well....i need input on buying a new mattress ...any suggesions.....hubby has a bad back and i ...well...you know!! thanks, lori..peace to you all. --- ## [Lifestyle Changes](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/lifestyle-changes/480)
**Author:** [@Katrina\_S](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Katrina_S)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [November 4, 2011, 3:21pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/lifestyle-changes/480 "2011-11-04T15:21:18Z")
I was just diagnosed with my Chiari this past Tuesday. I have read online all sorts of tips about lifestyles changes I should make...it's overwhelming. My question is, what are the lifestyle changes that you have made t… --- ## [Looking or a great post decompression pillow](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/looking-or-a-great-post-decompression-pillow/506)
**Author:** [@Kenny\_Who-dat\_Flamin](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Kenny_Who-dat_Flamin)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [October 31, 2011, 6:09pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/looking-or-a-great-post-decompression-pillow/506 "2011-10-31T18:09:12Z")
Somewhere I read about one that several of you raved about, but I can't find it. Can someone tell me what works best or you? --- ## [Peppermints...am I crazy?](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/peppermints-am-i-crazy/460)
**Author:** [@lranz](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/lranz)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [October 15, 2011, 2:09pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/peppermints-am-i-crazy/460 "2011-10-15T14:09:41Z")
I hate peppermints but am I the only person that seems to think that if I eat one or two my headaches seems to lessen? I hate these dreadful headaches and lately I have been getting crazy nausea spells, and help/advice t… --- ## [Spinal Stimulator](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/spinal-stimulator/435)
**Author:** [@mikidoodle](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/mikidoodle)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [September 30, 2011, 1:44pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/spinal-stimulator/435 "2011-09-30T13:44:14Z")
I will be recieving a spinal stimulator. I'm due to have a trial placement on 10/11. After great deal of time to come, this decision......Nothing has or will work for me as far as pain management, I've tried & researche… --- ## [An idea to help with neck pain](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/an-idea-to-help-with-neck-pain/379)
**Author:** [@tashasheart4u](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/tashasheart4u)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [August 23, 2011, 9:34pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/an-idea-to-help-with-neck-pain/379 "2011-08-23T21:34:40Z")
I like to sew and I found this tutorial for a unique neck pillow that's ergonomic and hugs me just perfect. It really does help with some of my head and neck pain while I'm sitting up. Thought I'd share in case anyone el… --- ## [Should I continue or STOP using my home cervical traction unit?](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/should-i-continue-or-stop-using-my-home-cervical-traction-unit/370)
**Author:** [@Tep2007](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Tep2007)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 20, 2011, 12:05pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/should-i-continue-or-stop-using-my-home-cervical-traction-unit/370 "2011-08-20T12:05:08Z")
Okay, So I ran across a list of things folks with CM should NOT do and on that list was " should avoid cervical traction" Why is that? Should I stop using mine? What does it/can it do? I think it may help with my sy… --- ## [Chiari Pillows](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/chiari-pillows/335)
**Author:** [@tinabrat](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/tinabrat)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [August 5, 2011, 12:58am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/chiari-pillows/335 "2011-08-05T00:58:46Z")
Are these Chiari pillows worth purchasing or can a nice fluffy one do as well? I am trying to make a list of things to bring to the hospital. I read some people enjoy these pillows but I thought I would ask you all first… --- ## [Been gone a long time...acupuncture helping me a LOT](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/been-gone-a-long-time-acupuncture-helping-me-a-lot/284)
**Author:** [@Julie\_H1](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Julie_H1)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [June 21, 2011, 2:33pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/been-gone-a-long-time-acupuncture-helping-me-a-lot/284 "2011-06-21T14:33:48Z")
Hi everyone, I've been gone for many weeks now and I'm so sorry for not staying in touch and more active. I have been so sick! Between the pain I was having, then I got a nasty kidney infection, now I have some kind of v… --- ## [Is Your House In Order?](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/is-your-house-in-order/255)
**Author:** [@mmpeanut](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/mmpeanut)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [June 14, 2011, 1:01am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/is-your-house-in-order/255 "2011-06-14T01:01:11Z")
In general, I am a really organized person when it comes to my life. I am a planner and always want to make sure that I have things "in order." Since I have confirmed my date for brain surgery, I have been really busy … --- ## [Tens unit](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/tens-unit/240)
**Author:** [@lori](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/lori)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [May 17, 2011, 9:49pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/tens-unit/240 "2011-05-17T21:49:57Z")
HI GANG: Just wanted to throw this out there... Has anyone used a TENS UNIT before..if so..what was/is your experience?? I am thinking of renting one..the rehab doctor used it on my hand with the Reflex Sympathetic… --- ## [Alternative therapies? Accupuncture, water therapy etc?](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/alternative-therapies-accupuncture-water-therapy-etc/191)
**Author:** [@Julie\_H1](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Julie_H1)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [May 6, 2011, 12:18pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/alternative-therapies-accupuncture-water-therapy-etc/191 "2011-05-06T12:18:14Z")
Hi All! I was wondering if anyone here has attempted any alternative therapies such as accupuncture or water therapy (to name a couple) to help manage their symptoms? I have a girlfriend who swears by accupuncture. I use… --- ## [Staying in Shape](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/staying-in-shape/197)
**Author:** [@Crystal](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Crystal)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [April 23, 2011, 11:03pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/staying-in-shape/197 "2011-04-23T23:03:40Z")
Hi Everyone, Hope you all are having a wonderful, pain free day!! I was just wondering what everyone does to stay in shape. Before I was having serious symptoms I was athletic and kept in shape. After kids and getting th… --- ## [How do u energize!](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/how-do-u-energize/182)
**Author:** [@abbey](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/abbey)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [April 20, 2011, 8:17pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/how-do-u-energize/182 "2011-04-20T20:17:56Z")
I need some tips on how to get my self up and about when i can't and don't even want to!! I'm always sooo tired and energy less!! --- ## [Instructions for a Rice Bag!](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/instructions-for-a-rice-bag/156)
**Author:** [@Abby](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Abby)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [March 25, 2011, 3:17am UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/instructions-for-a-rice-bag/156 "2011-03-25T03:17:48Z")
My daughter came up with these for her projects to sell in her classroom. You will need, cloth, soft, like flannel, cut 5" wide by 12" long 1 Large bag of rice (buy from the dollar store) its cheeper thread to match mate… --- ## [Nutrition and Fitness](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/nutrition-and-fitness/117)
**Author:** [@Alicia\_R](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/u/Alicia_R)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [February 21, 2011, 11:29pm UTC](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/t/nutrition-and-fitness/117 "2011-02-21T23:29:14Z")
Are there any foods/drinks you stay away from or eat because of chiari? For example, alcohol...I can't drink much at all. I get an instant hangover if I drink too much. I've never been able to go out and party like most … [Previous page](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/c/symptoms/complementary-therapies/12.md) [Next page](https://forum.chiarisupport.org/c/symptoms/complementary-therapies/12.md?page=2)