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Spina Bifida

Home > Illnesses and Disabilities Home > Types of Illnesses & Disabilities > Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is the most common disabling birth defect in the United States. It happens when the spine of the fetus does not form properly during the first month of pregnancy. As a result, nerves controlling leg movements and other functions die.

People with spina bifida have varying degrees of paralysis of the legs. They often need devices such as leg braces, crutches, or wheelchairs to get around. People with spina bifida also may have problems controlling urination and defecation. Most people with spina bifida are of normal intelligence, although most have some form of a learning disability.

The cause of spina bifida is unknown. Genes may play a role. Not getting enough folic acid (one of the B vitamins) during early pregnancy also appears to be a key factor. All women who are able to get pregnant should take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily before getting pregnant and during the first three months of pregnancy. (Women who have spina bifida should take 800 mcg folic acid each day). The easiest way to get enough folic acid is to take a multivitamin pill containing folic acid each day. You also can eat foods high in folic acid, such as:

• green leafy vegetables (spinach, turnip greens, collard greens)
• fruits (oranges, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, avocado)
• juices (orange, pineapple, tomato)
• beans and peas
• nuts and peanut butter
• breakfast cereals or grain products fortified with folic acid

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   NINDS Spina Bifida Information Page — This fact sheet offers information on the treatment and prognosis of patients with spina bifida (SB). It also provides a general overview of SB and a summary of research being done on this birth defect.

   http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/spina_bifida/spina_bifida.htm

2. Depression and Anxiety in Individuals With Spina Bifida (Copyright © Spina Bifida Association) — This publication explains what the symptoms of anxiety and depression are, what causes them, and how they are diagnosed and treated.

   http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2700263/k.4F8B/Depression_and_Anxiety.htm...

3. Employees Who Use Wheelchairs (Copyright © Job Accommodation Network) — This gives basic information about common limitations, accommodation possibilities, and ergonomics for people who use wheelchairs.

   http://www.jan.wvu.edu/media/Wheelchair.html

4. Frequently Asked Questions About Spina Bifida (Copyright © Spina Bifida Association) — This publication gives general information about spina bifida and answers questions about living with spina bifida.

   http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2642327/k.5899/FAQ_About_Spina_Bifida.htm...

5. Hip Function (Copyright © Spina Bifida Association) — This publication discusses the 4 physical aspects that are needed to walk. Although some children with spina bifida may be able to walk, hip and joint abnormalities can often cause problems as they become adults.

   http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2700279/k.91AF/Hip_Function_and_Ambulation.htm...

6. Latex (Natural Rubber) Allergy in Spina Bifida (Copyright © Spina Bifida Association) — This publication has information about the prevalence of latex allergy in people with spina bifida. It lists some common items that are made out of latex and gives tips for preventing allergic reactions.

   http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2700271/k.1779/Latex_Natural_Rubber_Allergy_in_S...

7. Obesity (Copyright © Spina Bifida Association) — Obesity is a major risk factor for many health problems in all people. But people with spina bifida have a very high risk of obesity. This fact sheet explains the risk factors of obesity specific to people with spina bifida, how you can prevent obesity, and what you can do to reduce your weight and become healthier.

   http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2700287/k.C25F/Obesity.htm...

8. Spina Bifida (Copyright © Nemours Foundation) — This online publication for parents includes information about spina bifida. It provides the causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, preventive measures, and ways to care for a child with spina bifida. It also gives tips to help parents know when to contact their child’s doctor.

   http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/system/ill/spina_bifida.html

9. Spina Bifida (Copyright © NICHCY) — This fact sheet outlines the general information about spina bifida including its definition, symptoms, incidence, and developmental effects.

   http://www.nichcy.org/pubs/factshe/fs12txt.htm

10. Travel With a Disability: Easier Than Ever (Copyright © Spina Bifida Association) — This publication offers specific advice on how people with disabilities can minimize the hassles of traveling in buses, trains, cruise ships, and planes. It also lists hints and tips for novice travelers about how they can be prepared and find accessible accommodations.

    http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2700303/k.6FE4/Travel_With_a_Disability.htm...

11. Urologic Care and Management (Copyright © Spina Bifida Association) — This publication gives information on the importance of maintaining urinary health in children with spina bifida in order to prevent kidney problems. It also discusses urinary continence, bowel control, and transitioning into adulthood.

    http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2700305/k.C07F/Urologic_Care_and_Management.htm...

Organizations

1.   National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, CDC
2.   National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, HHS
3. Easter Seals
4. March of Dimes Foundation
5. Spina Bifida Association

= Indicates Federal Resources

Content last updated May 15, 2008.