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Spina bifida is when a baby’s spine and spinal cord does not develop properly while they are still in the womb. Part of the neural tube does not form or close properly and this then leads to defects in the spinal cord.
The cause of spina bifida is not known.
The three most common types of spina bifida are:
· Myelomeningocele: where a sac of fluid comes through the opening in the baby’s back. Thee exposed sac contains part of the spinal cord and nerves and they are damaged. This is the most serious type of spina bifida.
· Meningocele: where a fluid filled sac comes through an opening in the baby’s back. In this case, the spinal cord is not contained in the sac and there is usually either very little or no nerve damage.
· Spina Bifida Occulta: where there is a small gap in the spine, but no opening on the baby’s back. This condition can sometimes be called ‘hidden spina bifida’ as it can sometimes be discovered late in childhood, or even in adulthood.
Our physiotherapists are experienced in the treatment of spina bifida, and continue to work hard with their professional development to ensure that children with this condition receive the best care from our service.
We understand that this condition can be challenging to manage, and we give support to children and their parents allowing them to gain a good knowledge of good postures for plan, handling techniques and general advice for optimum physical health.
Our main aims are to help with movement, prevent deformity and assist with leg strengthening to ensure power is maximised.
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Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing spina bifida. At Complete Neuro Rehab, our physiotherapists specialise in helping children with spina bifida improve movement, prevent deformities, and strengthen leg muscles to maximise mobility. Physiotherapy aims to enhance posture, provide handling techniques, and offer advice on maintaining optimal physical health. With the right care, children with spina bifida can significantly improve their quality of life.
There are three primary types of spina bifida, each differing in severity and impact on the individual: Myelomeningocele: The most serious type, where a sac of fluid, containing part of the spinal cord and nerves, protrudes through an opening in the baby’s back, causing significant nerve damage. Meningocele: A less severe form, where the sac contains fluid but does not include the spinal cord, resulting in minimal or no nerve damage. Spina Bifida Occulta: Often called "hidden spina bifida," this type involves a small gap in the spine without an external opening. It can go unnoticed until later in life.
Spina bifida is a birth defect where a baby’s spine and spinal cord do not develop properly while in the womb. It occurs when part of the neural tube, which forms the spine and brain, fails to close properly. Although the exact cause of spina bifida is unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There are three types of spina bifida: Myelomeningocele, Meningocele, and Spina Bifida Occulta, each varying in severity.