Spina Bifida
At the Paley Institute, we offer specialized care for patients with Spina Bifida at our West Palm Beach location. Our team of experienced physicians, including Drs. Asadi, Feldman, Hariharan, Dobbs, and Williams, have extensive experience in treating Spina Bifida and provide multidisciplinary care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Spina bifida involves a spectrum of birth defects in which the bones of the spine and sometimes the spinal cord do not properly form. This results in a gap in the spine, through which the spinal cord and the nerves that branch off it may protrude. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including paralysis, weakness, joint deformity, and problems with bowel and bladder control. Possible treatments include physical therapy, assistive devices, joint surgery, and surgical release of the spinal cord.
Explained for Kids
Spina bifida is when a baby’s spine doesn’t form quite right when they’re growing inside their mommy’s tummy. You know how your spine is like a long, bony road that helps you stand up and walk? Well, sometimes, a baby’s spine doesn’t close properly, like a zipper that doesn’t zip all the way. This can happen before they’re born. Because of this, the baby’s spinal cord, which is like a super important telephone wire that carries messages from their brain to the rest of their body, might not be protected like it should be.
Spina bifida can make it harder for kids to move their legs or feet, or they might have trouble going to the potty. But you know what? Kids with spina bifida are superheroes! They might need extra help, like surgeries or special equipment, but they can still do amazing things and be great friends, just like anyone else!
Explained for Parents
Spina bifida is a condition that occurs when a baby’s spine and spinal cord don’t develop properly in the womb. It happens when the spinal column doesn’t close all the way, leaving an opening or gap. This can cause damage to the spinal cord and nerves, leading to a range of physical and sometimes cognitive challenges. There are different types of spina bifida, ranging from mild to severe. The mildest form, called spina bifida occulta, may have no visible symptoms and might be discovered incidentally. Meningocele and myelomeningocele are more severe forms where the spinal cord or its covering can protrude through the opening in the spine.
Spina bifida is a condition that occurs when a baby’s spine and spinal cord don’t develop properly in the womb. It happens when the spinal column doesn’t close all the way, leaving an opening or gap. This can cause damage to the spinal cord and nerves, leading to a range of physical and sometimes cognitive challenges. There are different types of spina bifida, ranging from mild to severe. The mildest form, called spina bifida occulta, may have no visible symptoms and might be discovered incidentally. Meningocele and myelomeningocele are more severe forms where the spinal cord or its covering can protrude through the opening in the spine.
The exact cause of spina bifida isn’t always known, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can help reduce the risk. Symptoms of spina bifida can vary widely, depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include weakness or paralysis in the legs, difficulty with walking or balance, loss of sensation, bowel or bladder control problems, and in severe cases, hydrocephalus (build-up of fluid in the brain).
Treatment for spina bifida often involves surgery to repair the spinal defect and prevent infection. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive interventions may also be recommended to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. With early intervention and ongoing care, many children with spina bifida can lead fulfilling lives. Support groups and resources are available to help parents navigate the challenges of raising a child with spina bifida.