In this article, we will discuss, what are the orthopaedic issues related to Spina Bifida briefly.
What are the Orthopaedic Issues?
Children with Spina Bifida often face orthopaedic challenges like clubfoot, hip dislocation, spinal curvatures, and contractures in the knee, hip, and ankle, which can affect their walking ability. During school years, growth can lead to additional deformities such as spinal curvature and related neurological issues. Contractures in the hip, knee, and ankle are common. As these children grow and their body proportions change, walking becomes more physically demanding. Regular monitoring and early intervention are essential to manage these orthopedic issues effectively.
Mobility Support
Many children with Spina Bifida start school using walkers or crutches, but as they grow older, they often prefer wheelchairs for mobility. This choice frees their hands, conserves energy, and helps them keep up with their peers. Opting for a lightweight, maneuverable wheelchair makes it easier to participate in school activities, including wheelchair sports and aerobic cycling. The orthopedic specialist on their healthcare team regularly monitors their progress with exams and X-rays. Together with the physical therapist, the orthopedist determines the necessary surgeries, equipment, or braces as the child grows.
Managing Orthopedic Challenges and Encouraging Safe Physical Activity
Many children with Spina Bifida cannot feel parts of their lower body, making them prone to injuries like fractures. Additionally, orthopedic surgeries on the spine and lower limbs are often necessary, leading to extended absences from school due to hospitalization and recovery. Despite these challenges, children should not be discouraged from participating in physical activities out of fear of injury. However, those with a ventricular shunt for hydrocephalus should avoid activities that involve being upside down or pose a high risk of head or neck injury, as the shunt may not function properly in those positions.
Please Note
The information provided on our website is not intended as medical advice for any individual. Since specific cases may differ from the general information presented, SASHA recommends consulting a qualified medical or other professional for personalized advice.
FAQ
How does spina bifida affect bones?
Spina bifida (SB) can lead to changes in body composition and bone mineral density (BMD) through diminished ambulation, renal impairment, and anticonvulsant medication. Diseases such as obesity and osteoporosis are emerging comorbidities in SB.
What is orthopaedic management and why does my child need it?
In children with Spina Bifida, their spine, hips, legs, and feet often do not develop or work properly. This requires orthopaedic management.
Why do these problems happen?
Nerves tell your body parts how and when to function. In Spina Bifida, the nerves below the Spina Bifida area (lower spine) are not formed properly.
What are the mobility problems with spina bifida?
Most children with Spina Bifida have some degree of weakness or paralysis in their lower limbs. They may need to use ankle supports or crutches to help them move around. If they have severe paralysis, they’ll need a wheelchair.
What are common orthopaedic problems?
Clubfoot, ankle equinus, ankle valgus, hip and knee bending, hip dislocation and scoliosis.
How would a brace help my child?
Braces help support weak muscles or keep the legs in proper position for standing and walking.
What is Foot Orthosis (FO)?
The brace keeps the foot from turning downward, keeps the arch of the foot from flattening, and prevents the ankles from rolling inward.
What is Supramalleolar Orthosis (SMO)?
The brace extends above the ankle bones to provide increased support to the ankle while allowing the ankle to move.
What is Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO)?
This brace gives maximum support to the foot and ankle and extends up the calf to just below the knee. The brace can be solid at the ankle to stop ankle motion. Some are hinged at the ankle to allow some motion.
What is Floor Reaction or Solteil braces?
These are an ankle-foot brace that help the child walk in a more normal position.
What is Knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO)?
This brace supports the knee. It has thigh cuffs and jointed metal supports that extend from the thigh cuff to the ankle and foot. The knee joints can be locked or unlocked to allow sitting in the brace.
What is Hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (HKAFO)?
This brace come with a pelvic band to support the hips, or with both a pelvic band and a chest strap if more support is needed. Otherwise, it is identical to the KAFO. It is also called a “long-leg brace.”
About the Author
Raul/DJ Vivek
Meet Vivek Bharadwaj, a remarkable individual who has defied the odds and soared to new heights despite living with Spina Bifida. As the founder of the Sasha Foundation, Vivek tirelessly advocates for others facing similar challenges. His unwavering commitment to support, awareness, and empowerment had made a lasting impact on the Spina Bifida community.
