this is the first time i have ever used an online forum. i was diagnosed with chiari malformation 1 with syringomyelia on may15 07. i had a craniectomy on june 5 07. i am still in disbelief of my situation. i started out with pain in my left chest then down my arm and into my back. i finally found a dr. who listened to my symptoms. he ordered an mri thinking i may have a herniated disc. but when the results came back he as well as i was surprised at the least. post-op i still have the pain with no relief. i am currently on lyrica and several other pain meds. i've been told to be patient that the pain with go away, i just need time to heal. i want to believe i am getting the best care but am not convinced the pain is irreversable. please send comments and any information that may ease my worries as i wait.