Growing up, I frequently had excruciating neck pain. In 2011 I found out I had a Chiari 1 malformation. in June 2011 I underwent corrective surgery. The surgery was successful, and I was back to doing normal activities within three days. Since then, the neck pain has subsided, and I am now able to rigorous activity without any neck pain. I am a first year at Grinnell College in Iowa, and run cross country and track. Recently, I became interested in joining the military. I am wondering if the surgery could possibly bar me from serving. Does anyone know what the implications of a Chiari are in terms of serving?
Gleason, so great to hear success stories,so happy for you:)
In the key word search bar you can type in military- that will bring up all past discussions about it. I hope you find some info on that and let us know what you learn.
Jenn
To elaborate on the recovery, I was out of the hospital within 12 hours and my doctor said it was the quickest recovery he had ever seen. I am extremely grateful to have recovered as quick as I did. My symptoms were pain in the neck, occasional tingling in my hands and feet, and I didn't have a gag reflex. After the surgery, I didn't have as much neck pain, but it still hurts every once in a while. Interestingly, I developed a gag reflex after the surgery. I am currently having vision and hearing difficulties, and I am going to the doctor soon to see if it could be related to the chiari.
Rebecca said:
3 days back to normal activity. Wheeww..
Surgery is not a cure for Chiari, though it would be awesome if your symptoms disappeared for the rest of your life. I hope so!
We have a few military on this site. I do not have any experience to offer you. I just wanted to express my shock at returning back to normal activities within 3 days.
Were your only symptoms neck pain?
Thanks, Jenn! This website is extremely useful!
jcdemar said:
Gleason, so great to hear success stories,so happy for you:)
In the key word search bar you can type in military- that will bring up all past discussions about it. I hope you find some info on that and let us know what you learn.
Jenn
Thanks Nykki, I am not totally convinced on the military just yet either. I will of course focus on doing well academically for now, and explore all post graduation options.
Nykki said:
Congratulations on your recovery!!! I will let my other thoughts remain in my head because I don't have anything nice to say about the military.So, good luck in your academic pursuits.
Take care,
Nykki
Rebecca, while it is disappointing to hear, I appreciate you telling me what you've heard. I do rigorous activity on a day to day basis currently anyways, and it does not bother my neck. I would be extremely saddened if chiari was a disqualifying factor.
Rebecca said:
I grew up in a military family. I think it is honorable. It also opens a lot of doors for individuals who wouldn't otherwise have as many options. I do seem to remember hearing someone mention that maybe Chiari was one of the disqualifiers for the military. But, one of my symptoms is forgetfulness - so really don't take my word for it!
I'm sure there are many people in the military with Chiari though, that found out while in service.
I would ask anonymously. I would also think it would depend on the anatomy and any symptoms. Post-op, you're far less risk than pre-op. My Chiari was so much more dangerous pre-op because of the restrictive CSF flow and increased pressure. So short of the surgery failing or herniating more, etc. I would think I'd be okay---my NS is okay with me giving birth so I can't see more strenuous work being a problem. Good luck!