Spina Bifida Research Papers
Spina Bifida
Spina bifida, meaning, “split spine,” is one of the most common birth defects. It is present in about 1 in every 1000 births. This birth defect is part of a group called neural tube defects. The neural tube is a hollow structure where the brain and spinal cord form. This happens at the end of the first month of pregnancy when the spinal cord is developing. As a result, the spinal cord and nerves become damaged. This defect causes an opening in the back that can be visible or hidden under the skin.
There are 3 main types of Spina Bifida. One is spina bifida occulta. This is the mildest type, often referred to as “hidden” spina bifida. This type is not commonly found until adulthood. In this form, there is a tiny gap in the spine but no opening in the sac or on the back. The nerves are normal and cause no disabilities. Meningocele is another type, but rare. In this type the sac of …show more content…
First is the mobility symptoms. The brain controls the muscles in the body with nerves that run through the spinal cord; therefore, any damage to the nerves can result in problems controlling the muscles. Accordingly, most children with spina bifida will experience paralysis in their lower limbs. If they experience weakness they may need to use crutches or other support. The muscles in the legs are not used regularly and for this reason they will become severely weakened overtime. This weakness can affect bone development and result in deformed joints, bone fractures, and abnormal curves of the spine. Not only do the nerves control your limbs but they also control your bowel and bladder. They help control the muscles and keep the urine in the bladder. The bladder muscles can be tight or itchy and store little urine. Bowel problems could consist of constipation followed by diarrhea. Normally, this disorder happens during the first month of pregnancy meaning the typical age of onset is when you are still in the
Spina bifida, meaning, “split spine,” is one of the most common birth defects. It is present in about 1 in every 1000 births. This birth defect is part of a group called neural tube defects. The neural tube is a hollow structure where the brain and spinal cord form. This happens at the end of the first month of pregnancy when the spinal cord is developing. As a result, the spinal cord and nerves become damaged. This defect causes an opening in the back that can be visible or hidden under the skin.
There are 3 main types of Spina Bifida. One is spina bifida occulta. This is the mildest type, often referred to as “hidden” spina bifida. This type is not commonly found until adulthood. In this form, there is a tiny gap in the spine but no opening in the sac or on the back. The nerves are normal and cause no disabilities. Meningocele is another type, but rare. In this type the sac of …show more content…
First is the mobility symptoms. The brain controls the muscles in the body with nerves that run through the spinal cord; therefore, any damage to the nerves can result in problems controlling the muscles. Accordingly, most children with spina bifida will experience paralysis in their lower limbs. If they experience weakness they may need to use crutches or other support. The muscles in the legs are not used regularly and for this reason they will become severely weakened overtime. This weakness can affect bone development and result in deformed joints, bone fractures, and abnormal curves of the spine. Not only do the nerves control your limbs but they also control your bowel and bladder. They help control the muscles and keep the urine in the bladder. The bladder muscles can be tight or itchy and store little urine. Bowel problems could consist of constipation followed by diarrhea. Normally, this disorder happens during the first month of pregnancy meaning the typical age of onset is when you are still in the