Spina bifida

What is spina bifida?

Spina bifida is a birth defect of the neural tube, which eventually develops into the spine and nervous system.

If the neural tube does not form properly, it can lead to damage of the spinal cord, resulting in neurological dysfunctions such as lower-limb paralysis, sensory impairment, and incontinence.

The exact cause is unknown, but a lack of folic acid during early pregnancy can increase the risk of developing this condition.

Symptoms

There are three types of spina bifida:

• Occulta: Usually has no long-term health problems and may go unnoticed.
• Meningocele: Involves a sac of fluid coming through an opening in the baby’s back, but without the spinal cord. Symptoms can vary.
• Myelomeningocele: The most severe form, which typically results in lower limb paralysis, sensory impairments, and incontinence. Hydrocephalus (a buildup of fluid in the brain) is also common in this type.

Long-term symptoms

Long-term effects depend on the type and severity of the condition. In severe cases like myelomeningocele, children may experience:

• permanent lower-limb paralysis
• sensory deficits
• bladder and bowel incontinence
• hydrocephalus, often requiring a shunt to drain excess fluid from the brain

Treatment

Orthotic treatment for spina bifida varies depending on the severity of the condition. In more severe cases, surgery is often performed in infancy, or even during pregnancy, to protect the spinal cord.

For children with spina bifida with lower limb paralysis, physiotherapy and custom orthotic devices can help with a range of symptoms and support stability and mobility as a child grows.

Learn more about out custom orthotics for children with spina bifida