Spina Bifida or The Neural Tube Defect

What is Spina Bifida?

 

 Physiotherapy | Rehabilitation Exercises | Neurological Rehabilitation  | Musculoskeletal Complications | Paralysis | Hip Dislocation | Club Foot

 

Spina Bifida or The Neural Tube Defect

  • The term bifida has been derived from the Latin “Bifidus” which simply means left in 2 parts.
  • This is also known as Neural Tube defect because of its presence in the spinal column/tube.
  • In this this condition the vertebral arch of the vertebral column of children is usually not formed or sometimes incomplete leading to discontinuity of the column.
  • It is a Neurological condition, medically known as “Myelodysplasia”
  • The lesions or discontinuity can be found any where in the spine but is commonly noted in the lumbar and sacral regions.
  • The general presentations of the defect range from stillbirth to incidental radiographic findings.
  • It is a treatable spinal cord malformation.

What are the different types of Spina Bifida or The Neural Tube Defects?

The variations or types of spina bifida depend upon the degrees of severity

  • Spina Bifida Occulta – In this type of defect the neurological deficiets are generally absent
  • Meningocele – Under this type the dura and arachnoid protrudes forming a cystic swelling in the spine.
  • Meningomyelocele – Extension of the cord tissue into the meningocele, falls under this type.
  • Myeloschisis – Exposure of the spinal cord on the surface of the back.

What are the complications of Spina Bifida?

The complications of Spina Bifida are-

  • Reproductive organ impairment
  • Neurogenic bladder
  • Neurogenic bowel
  • Musculoskeletal Complications
  • Vulnerable child syndrome
  • Pressure sores
  • Latex allergy
  • Learning disability
  • Wound infection
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Vision impairment
  • Chiari compression
  • Chronic headache
  • Shunt failure
  • Low IQ
  • Obesity

Can Physiotherapy treat Spina Bifida?

  • According to various published researches and studies it has been found that Physiotherapy can be used to reduce the complications of Spina Bifida, a multidisciplinary approach can be followed for a better recovery rate and successful treatment planning.
  • The musculoskeletal complications can be managed to a certain extent using Neuro-Rehab by DNPR.
  • The Neurological Rehabilitation team available at DNPR has been treating and helping children with Spina BIfida.
  • Immediately after birth, the child be assessed for complications and clinical symptoms, after which a rehabilitation plan is customized, which should be reviews and goals must be set accordingly.
  • Physiotherapy can be useful for treating.
  • Lower limb paralysis (Flaccidity or Spasticity)
  • Urinary Incontinence.
  • Bowel bladder dysfunction.
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Poor Trunk Control
  • Scoliosis
  • Hip Dislocation
  • Contractures
  • Club Foot
  • Muscle Atrophy
  • Developmental Milestones
  • Range of motion
  • Muscle strength
  • Muscle Tone
  • Deformities

How to plan an efficient Physiotherapy Treatment for Spina Bifida?

Efficient physiotherapy treatment for Spina Bifida includes-

 

 

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