Spina Bifida

Definition:

A physical disability involving the spinal cord, and often involving the central nervous system.

Cause:

SB is caused by a prenatal malformation of the spine,  resulting in an opening in the spinal vertebral column.

Complications:

Many children with the more severe form of Spina Bifida also have hydrocephaly. Hydrocephaly is a condition in which there is an excess buildup of spinal fluid on the brain. If the fluid is left to accumulate, the child's head will become progressively larger and brain damage will occur. To avoid this accumulation, pliable plastic shunts are surgically inserted beneath the skin to drain off the excess fluid from the brain into the body cavities.

Symptoms:

  • loss of sensation from the protrusion to all areas of the body below it (decreased nerve function creates an inability to feel heat, cold, pain, etc.)
  • socks or leotards whould be worn in swimming pools
  • keep child out of direct sunlight and use a sunscreen
  • ensure bare skin is not touching the vinyl or metal of the wheelchair
  • if child crawls, observe area for sharp objects that could cause injury
  • shoes and socks should be worn at all times
  • socks should be worn inside out so the seam doesn't aggravate the feet inside splints
  • little or no bladder or bowel control (may use catheter or wear diapers or incontinent pad)
  • catheterizations should be done on time, according to routine, as some children can remain dry between catheterizations
  • paralysis/loss of leg movement (the higher the cord injury, the more muscles paralysed and the greater difficulty walking)
  • loss of muscle control below the spine lesion
  • fractures (bones are frail and do not develop as strongly due to decreased muscle movement and poor blood circulation)
  • brittle bones in areas in which there is poor circulation
  • skin breakdown (occurs where blood circulation is poor and where there is constant pressure on any part of the body which has bony points carrying a lot of weight ie. bottom, hips, heels, feet)
  • socks should be worn under splints and should fit well, have no wrinkles
  • feet should be kept dry at all times (powder or cornstarch may be applied sparingly before wearing splints)
  • position in the wheelchair should be changed frequently


Resources:

Local

Spinal cord and spina bifida associations and organizations,  hospitals,  local agencies.

Canada United States
Spina Bifida Association of Canada Spina Bifida Association of America
633 Wellington Crescent 343 South Dearborn, Room 317
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3M 0A8 Chicago, Illinois 60604 
(204) 452-7580 (312) 663-1562 

Web Links

Children with Spina Bifida Resource page for parents. Includes research, conferences, information resources, family support, mailing lists, newgroups, IRC chats, photo gallery and more!
What is it like to have Spina Bifida? A grandmother's quest to discover what life is like for people who have Spina Bifida, on behalf of her 3 yr. old granddaughter.



This page listed with MedSurf.


Please read this disclaimer.

Comments

Main Page| Welcome| Disabilities| Education Resources| Support| About Author
| Message Board|

[Sign My Guestbook][ View My Guestbook] [Guestbook by GuestWorld]



This Spina Bifida Web Ring site is owned by
Jenn.

Want to join the Spina Bifida Web Ring?

[Skip Prev] [Prev] [Next] [Skip Next] [Random] [Next 5] [List Sites]