The Chiari I Malformation (CM-I) is an uncommon congenital (present at birth) deformity of the lower compartment of the cranium called the posterior fossa that results in crowding of the brainstem and cerebellum. The lower part of the cerebellum, known as the cerebellar tonsils, protrudes down the opening at the base of the skull (known as the foramen magnum) and into the spinal canal. This results in tissue compression and decreased spinal fluid flow. Although the Chiari (pronounced kee-ar'-ee) I Malformation can cause problems in childhood, many people do not develop symptoms until adulthood.

The Chiari I Malformation is more common in women than in men though the exact cause is still unknown. There is no particular ethnic or geographic distribution of people affected by this disease.

People with CM-I may develop symptoms in their 20's or 30's, although symptoms can develop sooner or later. Multiple symptoms are possible. Among the most common are headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, neck pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling the arms, nausea and problems swallowing.

"When symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue persist, they often rob a person of their quality of life. Though not everyone experiencing these symptoms is suffering from Chiari I Malformation, for those that are, we're here to provide answers and options." - John Oró, M.D.

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