is there any connection between cervical dystonia and arnold chiari malformation?

Question

I have been diagnosed with both.with contiuous research,i find that there are many similiar physical symptoms.yet i have been told by quite a few neurologists that there is no connection.I really don't believe the doctors have enough knowledge of either condition,thus causing their lack of information.

Answer 1

Arnold-Chiari malformation is visible is radiologic studies. It is not all that common, and in 14+ years of working with balance disorders, I have only come across one patient with it.

As an Audiologist, I do not know much about cervical dystonia. If possible, I would consult one of the larger balance centers that have a multi-disciplinary team in order to ensure an accurate differential diagnosis.

If you do not have access to a large center, I'd suggest starting with a Physiatrist (a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation).

Another point to consider is this (again, I am uncertain if it truly applies in your case): There are conditions for which we are unable to cure the cause, but can only treat the symptoms; and thus a differential diagnosis is splitting hairs in a sense. So if the symptoms are the same, and the recommended treatments the same, what difference will it make in your treatment and ongoing care to know whether you have one, the other or both conditions?