03/18/2026
Symptoms of Spina Bifida
Muscle tone varies from flaccid to spastic
-Lower motor neuron lesions-flaccid paralysis
-Upper motor neuron signs-related to CNS involvement (spasticity and abnormal reflexes)
Sensory deficits-Frequently do not correlate with motor levels
Temperature-Burns
Pressure-skin breakdown
Musculoskeletal deformities
-Spinal deformities-scoliosis, Kyphosis,excessive L-spine lordosis
-Postural problems-anterior pelvic tilt, forward head, rounded shoulders, crouched standing posture
-LE deformities-torsional deformities of femur and tibia (femoral anteversion, external tibial torsion, internal tibial torsion), Hip dysplasia, Hip subluxation, Hip dislocation, Genu varum or valgus, Talipes equinovarus-clubfoot, Calcaneovalgus much more common in a lower level lesion due to gastroc being knocked out and anterior tib still active so causes dorsiflexion contracture, pronated or supinated forefoot
-Joint contractures-Hip flexors, hip abductors and external rotators, knee flexors, ankle dorsiflexors or plantarflexors
Osteoporosis
Hydrocephalus
***Shunt malfunction-irritability, headaches, vomiting, lethargy, fever, speech changes, decreased activity level, decreased school performance, personality change, visual disturbances, change in visual acuity, seizure activity, coordination, muscle tone, appetite***
Arnold-Chiari II malformation- Cerebellar hypoplasia with caudal displacement of the hindbrain through foramen magnum
Seizures
Neurogenic bowel/bladder
Latex allergy
Tethered cord syndrome- onset or worsening of spasticity, sudden increase in lumbar lordosis, back or buttock pain, development or rapid progression of scoliosis, loss of sensation, loss of muscle strength, progressive LE weakness, change in gait pattern, change in bowel and bladder control
