CHILDREN · Health guide
Spina Bifida: Signs, Monitoring and Rehabilitation
Movement, sensory and daily-living needs in spina bifida: rehabilitation and multidisciplinary follow-up from childhood onwards.
Updated: · General information
What is it?
Spina bifida is a condition related to the closure of the spinal and spinal cord structures during development in the womb. The level of involvement and the degree of movement restriction vary.
How is it assessed?
Muscle strength, joint movement, skin sensation and sitting and walking skills are assessed. The plan is drawn up together with paediatrics, the relevant surgical specialties and, where needed, urology follow-up.
How is rehabilitation planned?
Physiotherapy, assistive devices and family training support the child’s participation. Where sensation is reduced, skin care and pressure monitoring are important. Rehabilitation does not promise to reverse the nerve damage.
What determines movement capacity?
The level of involvement of the nervous system and muscle strength affect sitting and walking ability. The need for an orthosis or a wheelchair varies from person to person. Rehabilitation is considered together with joint movement during growth and with daily independence; it does not replace follow-up by urology and other specialties.
Why does monitoring the skin and assistive devices matter?
In areas where sensation is reduced, friction or pressure may go unnoticed. The fit of shoes and orthoses, the seating surface and any changes in the skin are included in the care plan. The follow-up team should be informed of any new wound, marked loss of strength or change in urinary pattern.
Your questions
Patient information
Does every child follow the same walking programme?
No. Nerve involvement, growth and joint condition differ. The goal may be walking, safe transfers or independent wheelchair use.
Do orthoses change as the child grows?
Yes. Growth and changing movement needs may require the fit of the device to be reassessed; pinching or skin breakdown is not regarded as normal.
