Spina Bifida is a developmental disability that affects the spine and occurs at birth. It happens when the neural tube does not form properly or close completely. The neural tube is the part of the developing embryo that later becomes the brain and spinal cord.   Approximately 1 in 2875 babies are born with spina bifida each year.

There are three types: spina bifida occulta, myelomeningocele, and meningocele. Occulta means to be hidden. The Mayo Clinic explains, “This type of spina bifida results in a small separation or gap in one or more of the spine’s bones, called vertebrae. Many people who have spina bifida occulta don’t know they have it. It may be found during an imaging test such as an X-ray for another reason.” (Para. 4, 2024).

Myelomeningocele, or open spina bifida, is the most serious type.  The clinic states, “Part of the spinal cord, including the spinal cord’s protective covering and spinal nerves, push through this opening at birth, forming a sac on the baby’s back. Tissues and nerves usually are exposed. This makes the baby prone to dangerous infections.” (Para. 5,2024).

The rarest type of the condition is known as Meningocele. In this type, “a sac of spinal fluid bulges through an opening in the spine. No nerves are affected, and the spinal cord isn’t in the fluid sac. Babies with meningocele may have some minor trouble with functioning, including with the bladder and bowels.” (Para. 6, 2024).

Symptoms can range in severity depending on the intensity of the condition. Minor symptoms can appear such as a small dimple or birthmark whereas critical symptoms can include weakness in movement of the legs or problems with bladder and bowel function.

Treatment of spina bifida begins with initial surgery to repair the defect in the spine. This surgery is needed within forty-eight hours of birth. Physiotherapy can help an individual with movement and to become as independent as possible. Occupational therapy can offer practical solutions to completing everyday activities, such as getting dressed. Spina Bifida cannot be cured but there are many treatment options for individuals with the condition.

Echoing Hills is devoted to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with spina bifida. The ministry is committed to revolutionizing the lives of those we serve by demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ. Our staff honors an individual’s dignity and right to choose, seeing the person before the disability.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/spina-bifida/symptoms-causes/syc-20377860
https://www.cdc.gov/spina-bifida/about/index.html#:~:text=Spina%20bifida%20is%20a%20condition,range%20from%20mild%20to%20severe.