WHAT IS SPINA BIFIDA AND HOW DOES IT EFFECY MY CHILD?

Spina Bifida means cleft spine, which is an incomplete closure in the spinal column. The causes may be due to genetic predisposition or a lack of folic acid during pregnancy. The three types of spina bifida (from mild to severe) are:

• Spina Bifida Occulta : There is an opening in one or more of the vertebrae (bones) of the spinal column without damage to the spinal cord.


• Meningocele : The protective covering around the spinal cord, has pushed out through the opening in the vertebrae in a sac called the "meningocele." However, the spinal cord remains intact.


• Myelomeningocele : This is the most severe form of spina bifida, in which a portion of the spinal cord protrudes through the back. In some cases, sacs are covered with skin; in others, tissue and nerves are exposed.

DEVELOPMENTAL AND EDUCATIONAL IMPLICATIONS

The most serious form of spina bifida, may include muscle weakness or paralysis below the area of the spine where the cleft occurs, and loss of bowel and bladder control. Many children need a longer period of training to learn to manage their bowel and bladder functions.

In addition, fluid may build up in the brain (hydrocephalus). Now surgery can be performed within the first 48 hours after birth to drain fluid, preventing brain damage. In some cases, children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus experience learning difficulties but not necessarily disabilities. They may have difficulty with paying attention, expressing or understanding language, and grasping reading and math. Early intervention with children who experience learning problems can help considerably to prepare them for school. School programs should be flexible to accommodate these special needs. Successful integration in to mainstream school may need some adaptations such as ramps to accommodate wheel chairs.

Children with myelomeningocele need to learn mobility skills and will need early input from both physiotherapists and occupational therapists. They may often require the aid of crutches, braces, or wheelchairs. It is important that parents and teachers or carer’s understand the child's physical capabilities and limitations. Quite often, however, they must have a series of operations throughout their childhood to correct physical problems such as spinal curvatures.

Physical disabilities like spina bifida can have profound effects on a child's emotional and social development. To promote personal growth, families and teachers should encourage children, to be independent in all life skills and to participate in activities with their non-disabled classmates.