Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a condition developed in utero i.e. whilst the foetus is growing in the womb.

Spina bifida is a problem where the neural tube (brain and spinal cord) does not develop or close typically leading to changes in the neural tube and bones in the spine (vertebrae).

Depending on the severity of changes there are different types of spina bifida such as myelomeningocele, meningocele and spina bifida occulta.

Some children diagnosed with myelomeningocele can present with associated conditions such as Chiari or Arnold Chiari Malformation and again there are different classifications of this condition. It affects the part of the neural tube where the brain and spinal cord meet.

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Spina Bifida Occulta

Some healthy individuals may have this condition and not know until they come to an x ray on their spine. A small group of people with this type may present with pain, neurological symptoms and tethering of the spinal cord which means which is attached to tissues around the spine and may need neurosurgery to correct.

Meningocele

This is when part of the spinal cord pushes out through the spine in a sac of neural fluid.

There is usually no nerve damage and individuals with this condition may have minor disabilities.

Myelomeningocele

This is the most severe type of spina bifida when the spinal cord and nerves come through an open part in the spine.

The condition is associated with nerve damage, tethering can still occur as described above, hydrocephalus (too much fluid on the brain), balance and mobility problems, weakness, lower back and leg pain, altered sensation, changes in bladder and bowel function, scoliosis, foot posture and tissue viability problems as the individual gets older.

Functional Ability

Despite some significant issues younger children diagnosed with myelomeningocele will learn to walk albeit slightly delayed.

To prevent long term problems from walking, the child’s feet need to be fully supported which may need splints (Ankle Foot Orthoses, AFO’s) and adaptive shoes to correct.

Due to typical calf muscles weakness the child and later adult will present with balance difficulties and walking aids may be required. The main aim at a younger age is to minimise and prevent deformities of the individual’s feet from walking without sufficient support whilst maximising functional ability. This is important to reduce the likelihood of contractures (muscle tightness) and deformities which may lead to tissue viability problems, in later life, making weight bearing difficult.

How can we help?

Our team of experienced paediatric and adult physiotherapists can support children and adults diagnosed with spina bifida and its many variations.

Our in-depth knowledge of the condition, gait analysis (walking) and equipment means we can advise and support you from child to adulthood.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information.

Claire has worked along side our NHS Physiotherapist and Anais’s nursery to ensure she has a seamless Physiotherapy Programme that everyone can follow and understand in order to help Anais in her everyday life. Claire has made Anais’s sessions interesting and fun and Anais loves the time she spends with her.
Sarah Cottam, Bolton
Sarah Cottam, Bolton
Each session is tailored to my daughter’s needs and every minute is beneficial. I would recommend Claire to anyone with a child that has limited movement or requires help with moving around..
Mehwashe Nawaz, Nelson
Mehwashe Nawaz, Nelson
Claire played a key role in my daughter's development and her expertise was vital in achieving this. We hope to continue with Claire on further improving our daughter physical ability. For anybody needed physio help for their children, I would highly recommend Claire.
Parent, Burnley
Parent, Burnley
Claire is an exceptional physiotherapist, very calm, reassuring, and positive. We watched our son grow, going from strength to strength, achieving target after target.
Karina Timson, Widnes
Karina Timson, Widnes
We worked on mobility problems caused by my progressive multiple sclerosis which was challenging my legs and balance. Claire is a genuine, understanding person who I would recommend without hesitation
Trevor Crabtree, Barrowford
Trevor Crabtree, Barrowford
Our daughter Anais has Quadriplegic Cerebal Palsy and we were looking for a private physiotherapist to work alongside her NHS Physiotherapist on a more frequent basis. For the patience and understanding she has with Anais and her continued efforts we can only say thank you.
Sarah Cottam, Bolton
Sarah Cottam, Bolton
As parents we also learnt how to continue and help develop our son outside of his therapy sessions, Claire was great at involving us all as a family. Claire could see with us all working together we could help Parker achieve the unimaginable.
Karina Timson, Widnes
Karina Timson, Widnes
I would highly recommend Claire. She has worked with our family for a few years. Very professional, friendly and approachable. Claire really knows her profession, is extremely knowledgeable and gets the best out of any sessions with our son. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her services.
MT, Brierfield
MT, Brierfield
My daughter was 2 years old when we found out she had high tone in her legs and would need help with her physical movements and would need physio. Claire designed a plan and now our daughter plays in standing without holding hands, she plays on the floor with her legs bent, as well as moving side to side.
Parent, Burnley
Parent, Burnley

Get in touch with a member of our friendly team​

01282 222720
info@letsgophysio.co.uk

Office 3
Northlight Estate
Northlight Parade
Nelson
BB9 5EG

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