Posted by viviane (62.20.164.111) on August 22, 2000 at 11:13:22:
In Reply to: Neck pains being a trigger ? posted by Aussie Dave on August 20, 2000 at 19:28:02:
have had over 20 years of migraines and mis-diagnosed ch. like you, always some neck problems, then summer 96, suddenly unable to walk together with head pain attack. progressive lameness , increasing in both arms and legs, always worst w. head pains. another 3 years of misdiagnoses despite obvious symptoms!!!! Finally, may 99, was diagnosed w. spinal stenosis, cervical myelopathy (check it out on i-net, quick explan.:" narrowing of spinal canal , pressure on bone marrow". A month later I had surgery, removing bony spurs, etc. setting free of the pressure on "dural sac", 2 new disks were grafted w. hip bone chips, titanium, 3 vertebrae were fused. in surgery report they also mentioned there was pressure on "arteria vertebralis" which is one of the main arteries running through spine into brain. It would seem that any pressure on this artery could cause arterial problems in the brain and pain - I do not understand why docs concerned with CH are not looking into this anymore??? It struck me on a german CH page, somebody mentioned a narrow spinal canal as well, so it's quite a coincidence among such a small selection of people, having similar abnormalities. i am very happy to have had the surgery, feel much better motionwise, but headpain, alas, no better, even getting worse now. However, I believe my chances would have been a lot better if the diagnosis had not dragged on for so long.
My only advice: do not take your neck pains lightly, see a really good orthopaedic specialist to examine your spine (avoid myelogram if possible- I had 2, + 1 lumbar puncture) they can make a good spinal picture w. bone marrow on MRI (magnetic resonance). Any postural problems should be remedied as fast as possible, with the help of good reeducation therapy, strengthening back muscles in a "non-violent" way. Trade your bike for a Volvo (this comes from Sweden)
best wishes
VIV