Neurological Balance and Medical Disorders
Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team
Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board
Last updated: June 2026
Key Takeaways
- Spina bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs when the spinal column does not fully close during early fetal development, causing varying degrees of mobility issues, muscle weakness, and neurological challenges depending on the severity and location of the defect.
- It affects approximately 1 in every 2,750 births in the U.S., and while it is a lifelong condition, early therapeutic care can significantly improve a child's mobility, communication, and independence.
- There are three main types of spina bifida ranging from the mildest and most common form, which often has no symptoms, to the most severe form, in which the spinal cord and nerves protrude through the back and can lead to paralysis, bladder/bowel dysfunction, and cognitive delays.
- A multidisciplinary therapy approach combining physical, occupational, and speech therapy is often needed, with each addressing different challenges such as mobility, fine motor skills, daily independence, and communication.
- Starting therapy as early as infancy is essential to improve developmental outcomes, maximize independence, and support brain development, and care often continues through school age and adolescence as the child's needs evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is spina bifida in children?
Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect that occurs when the spinal column does not fully close during early fetal development. It can cause varying degrees of mobility issues, muscle weakness, and neurological challenges depending on the severity and location of the defect.
How common is spina bifida?
Spina bifida affects approximately 1 in every 2,750 births in the U.S.
What are the symptoms of spina bifida?
Symptoms depend on the type and location of the spinal defect, but may include muscle weakness or paralysis in the legs, loss of bladder or bowel control, hydrocephalus, orthopedic issues such as clubfoot or scoliosis, difficulty with coordination and balance, cognitive delays, speech or language impairments, fine motor challenges, and sensory processing issues.
How is spina bifida diagnosed?
Diagnosis can occur prenatally through ultrasound or maternal blood tests (AFP test), at birth due to visible signs or spinal abnormalities, or in milder cases during early childhood when developmental delays emerge.
How can therapy help my child with spina bifida?
Physical therapy enhances muscle strength, range of motion, balance, and mobility while preventing secondary issues like contractures or pressure sores. Occupational therapy builds fine motor skills and independence in daily activities, and speech therapy supports children with cognitive or language delays, feeding or swallowing issues, and social communication.
When should my child start therapy for spina bifida?
Starting therapy as early as infancy is essential to improve developmental outcomes, maximize independence, and support brain development during critical growth periods. Therapy often continues through school age and adolescence, adjusting as the child's needs evolve.
