SPINA BIFIDA

Jake, Larry, Eric

WHAT IS SPINA BIFIDA?

Definition- Spina Bifida is a developmental congenital disorder caused by the incomplete closing of the embryonic neural tube. Some vertebrae overlying the spinal cord are not fully formed and remain unfused and open. If the opening is large enough, this allows a portion of the spinal cord to protrude through the opening in the bones.

DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISTICS

Children with Spina Bifida can lead full lives. Most do well in school, and many play in sports. Because of todays medicine, about 90 percent of babies born with Spina Bifida now live to be adults, about 80 percent have normal intelligence and about 75 percent play sports and do other fun activities. (Depending on severity) Leg weakness and paralysis club foot, hip dislocation, scoliosis Bladder and bowel control problems, urinary tract infections Pressure sores and skin irritations Abnormal eye movement

CAUSES/CLASSIFICATIONS

No one knows for sure. Scientists believe that genes and the environment are part of the cause.

SECONDARY MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Minor physical problems Little functional impairment Most people with Spina bifida are of normal intelligence But in severe cases, severe physical and mental disabilities Chiari II malformation Latex allergies, skin problems, gastrointestinal conditions, and depression may occur as children with Spina bifida get older.

TREATMENT
Depends on Severity Mild cases may not need treatment. Severe defect may need surgery. May need a brace or a wheelchair, physical therapy

SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES
Gymnastics Fitness Volleyball Pickle ball Tennis

MODIFICATIONS
Gymnastics modifications Crawling through tunnels Through the legs of chairs or a low table. Crawling over a mat or pillow Playing wheel barrow.

Fitness day modifications Doing bottom lifts in the wheelchair, on the floor, sitting in a chair. Push ups lying on their tummy.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Basketball Rugby Tennis Swimming Hockey Horse back riding

VIDEO

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91ixIPtg90Q

RESOURCES
http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/ http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/spina_bifida/det ail_spina_bifida.htm#247783258 http://kidshealth.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/be-active-spina-bifida http://www.ncpad.org/239/1560/Exercises~for~Indiv iduals~with~Spina~Bifida http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/tc/spinabifida-topic-overview