Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS) is a congenital anatomical anomaly that occurs in 15-34% of the population. It is caused by the median arcuate ligament compressing the celiac artery and the nerves of the celiac plexus, causing symptoms such as pain after eating, nausea, exercise intolerance, weight loss, and more.

MALS patients come in all shapes and sizes and often present with symptoms that make diagnosis difficult. Most doctors are unaware that MALS exists, so it is often up to the patient to bring this condition to their provider's attention. Here we have collected stories from MALS patients discussing their journeys to diagnosis, through treatment, and into recovery to help others understand this process and, hopefully, help them reach their own diagnosis.