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Every year in October, Spina Bifida Awareness Month is observed to celebrate all people who are living with the condition. Its purpose is to promote understanding of the condition and to provide support to those who are affected.
“Split spine”, as the words translated from Latin, is when a baby’s backbone does not form normally leaving a section of spinal cord and spinal nerves exposed through an opening in the back that affects their functions permanently. Spina Bifida is the most common birth defect in the US that occurs in 1 per 2,000 live births and around 1,500 babies are born with this condition. Although there are no known causes, a major risk factor is a deficiency in folic acid prior to and during the first trimester of pregnancy.
It can be mild or severe; however, severe spina bifida can cause more physical complications like mobility and walking problems, orthopedic complications, accumulation of fluid in the brain (hydrocephalus), shunt malfunction and many more. Nevertheless, not all children with spina bifida get all these complications. Signs and symptoms include weakness of legs or paralysis resulting from nerve damage, bowel and bladder problems, skin problems, orthopedic concerns, learning disabilities, problems with attention, or other neurological problems.
Physical therapy and occupational therapy are essential in helping patients with spina bifida improve their mobility, function, and ability to do daily tasks. Physical therapists will complete a thorough evaluation of the patient, look over their medical history, and collect additional health-related details. They will then assess their level of muscular strength, coordination, and flexibility through motor development tests in order to establish a plan of care that is suited for them. Occupational therapists helps patients with spina bifida with developing their self-care, social, and motor skills. With their combined efforts, they can improve the quality of life for those who have spina bifida, giving them opportunities to engage in this ever-changing world.
In light of this celebration, we can show our support with simple things like donating to charity and fundraising events, being well-informed, and being involved in raising awareness to the community. Stand for the people with spina bifida. Stand for Spina Bifida Awareness Month.
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Written by: Katherine Marie Ferrer, CRS Newsletter
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