I agree with you on all counts, but want to add one thought. Because so many of us do not heal well from lumbar punctures, I wonder if there is another way… Instead of using an LP to check for changes in tonsillar descent, could they use a fairly high dose of Diamox (assuming your CO2 is 22 or above)? Did you see the references in The Driscoll Theory (case reports of how Diamox can reduce or eliminate Chiari)? The other fear I have is that an LP can CAUSE a Chiari (it’s called “induced Chiari” and is also referenced in the book). What patients describe to me is that during an LP, their CSF shoots out (often across the room), then STOPS because they now have an induced Chiari corking the top of the spine, halting the CSF flow. Does that make sense? Their doctors see or measure very high pressure, but then it stops, totally confusing them. Induced Chiari is real and if your doctor can accomplish the same thing with Diamox, wouldn’t that be just dandy? 😉