Spina Bifida

Diagnosis and Conditions: Spina Bifida

Jenna Maisto
Florida International University

Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida is a defect that happens at birth to the neural tube on the
infant. When the neural tube does not develop correctly or closes fully, it
causes the defect in the bones of the spine and the spinal cord (Porter,
2015). The word spina bifida, means split spine, and there are three
different forms of SB that range from mild to severe (SB Association, 2015).
The first form is call occulta, which is when there are one or more openings
in the vertebrae column. This can be repaired and does not cause lasting
damage to the child (Porter, 2015). The next form is menigocele, which is
when the protective covering called the meninges is pushed out through the
opening of the vertebrae (SB Association, 2015). Lastly, is
myelomeningocele which is usually what SB is associated with when referred
too. This form of SB is the most severe form and occurs when part of the
spinal cord sticks out through the back. For this paper, when referring to SB,
it will be referring to this form, myelomeningocele. The effects of this SB
include: sensation loss, muscle weakness and paralysis of that area exposed
(Porter, 2015). SB will effect each person differently and each case should be
individualized. There are also many secondary conditions that go along with
SB such as bladder and bowel issues, latex allergies, and hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalus is when there is a fluid build up in the brain and in order for
that to be relieved a shunt must be installed (Porter, 2015). Concerning
latex allergies, approximately 73% of children with SB develop this allergy
(Porter, 2015).

Spina Bifida
According to Porter, out of 1/1000 births 96% of them will have a
diagnosis of SB (myelomeningocele), and 40% of people will have the minor
forms of SB, in which some cases will go unnoticed their whole life. The
predominant age of SB varies and is usually when the child develops signs.
SB is unpredictable and can develop at different rates for every person
(Porter, 2015). Currently there is no known cause of SB, but there are some
factors that do contribute such as genetics and environmental factors. As for
genetics if the parents have a history of neural tube defects or lack of folic
acid there could be a correlation between the diagnosis and those
contributing factors (Porter, 2015).
Psychological issues for children who have SB can be depression,
defiant behavior and withdrawing from social situations or overall withdraw
(Porter, 2015). This largely due to how the child perceives their disability and
how the ongoing care (surgery/hospitalization) as taken a toll on them
mentally and physically. Social issues, also tend to form because of the
frequent hospital visits and procedures which will effect the childs social
development. They also have a difficult time in understanding social
interactions and problem solving (SB Association, 2015). As for lifestyle
issues, self management and hygiene are areas of concern for a person who
has SB. Often times, immobility can cause obesity issues in people with SB,
so creating a healthy leisure lifestyle to learn these skills of taking care of
one self is imperative.

Spina Bifida
The treatment for SB would happen within the 48 hours after birth,
with a surgery to put back the nerves that are exposed back into the spinal
column (Porter, 2015). Long term treatment, would include treatment for
bowel and bladder issues and also taking measures to avoid obesity.
Developing an active leisure lifestyle that promotes independence and self
awareness is extremely important. On going rehabilitation in
learning/developing self-care, hygiene skills are an area that needs attention
for people with SB. Also, learning how to manage and reduce the effects of
these secondary conditions through leisure education and awareness is also
part of the treatment and rehabilitation plan (Porter, 2015).

Works Cited
Porter, H. (2015). Recreational Therapy for Specific Diagnosis and
Conditions. Emunclaw, WA, USA: Idyll Arbors Inc.
SB Association. (2015). What is SB? Retrieved Novemeber 1, 2016, from
Spina Bifida Association of America: http://spinabifidaassociation.org/