SPINA BIFIDA
Definition
http://spinabifidaassociation.org/what-is-sb/
Happens when a baby is in the womb and the spinal column does not close all of the way, no one knows what causes it, scientists say the genetic and environmental factors cause the condition.
4 different types of spina bifida
1. Occult spinal dysraphism (OSD): Spinal cord may not grow the right way and can cause serious problems as child grows up
a. treated: should see surgeon, experts believe that surgery is needed to keep nerves and brain from becoming more damaged as child gets older
2. Spina Bifida Occulta: 15% of healthy people have this type, doesn’t cause harm, people usually find out accidently by an x-ray, small percentage of this experience pain and neurological symptoms
a. treated:not need to be treated
3. Meningocele: A meningocele causes part of the spinal cord to come through the spine like a sac that is pushed out. Nerve fluid is in the sac, and there is usually no nerve damage. Individuals with this condition may have minor disabilities.
a. treated: with surgery, child isn’t paralyzed
4. Myelomeningocele AKA Spina Bifida Cystica: most severe form, parts of spinal cord and nerves come through open part of the spine, causes nerve damage and other disabilities, 70-90% of children with this form have too much fluid in brain because the fluid that protects the brain and spinal cord is unable to drain like it should. this build up causes swelling and pressure without treatment the head grows too big and the person may have brain damage
a. treated:operated within 2-3 days of birth, prevents infections and helps save spinal cord from more damage
Conditions associated with Spina Bifida
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mobility: may need crutches, braces, or wheelchair
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bladder, bowel, and gastrointestinal disorder
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latex allergy
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obesity
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skin breakdown
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learning disability
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social issues
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tendonitis
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sexual issues
Learning disabilities: https://www.chadkids.org/spina-bifida/spina-bifida-educational-issues.html
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Math difficulty, especially affecting math reasoning
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Poor handwriting skills
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Organizational problems
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Distractibility and inattentiveness
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Sensory integration problems
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Inappropriate language usage
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Auditory processing difficulties
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Visual perception problems
Instructional Strategies
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/spina-bifida-factsheet.html
https://www.sess.ie/categories/physical-disabilities/spina-bifida/tips-learning-and-teaching
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use splints, casts, leg braces, canes, crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs
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need extra time moving around classrooms, between classes, and throughout school
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need special seats and desks or tables, as well as assistive technology and extra space for wheelchairs or other equipment
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have learning difficulties and problems with memory, attention, comprehension, and organization
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need extra assistance and time to complete assignments
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miss class time due to medical appointments or surgeries
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need frequent bathroom breaks throughout the day
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be allergic to products that contain latex (natural rubber)
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have specific accommodations listed in an individualized education plan (IEP) or 504 education plan
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Use a ‘Buddy system’ for tasks such as Science experiments. (important)
clear step by step instructions
Useful Websites
Research
Other
HYDROCEPHALUS
Many children with Spina Bifida also have hydrocephalus and require a shunt. The most common problems with shunts are they can plug or obstruct, break or come apart, resulting in shunt malfunction. The signs of shunt malfunction are varied and can be confusing for everyone involved. Teachers must be aware of the symptoms of shunt malfunction.
COMMON SYMPTOMS 1. Headache 2. Nausea 3. Vomiting
LESS COMMON SYMPTOMS 1. Seizures 2. Change in intellect, performance, or personality 3. Increased swallowing problems 4. Worsening muscle function, balance, coordination 5. Worsening bowel or bladder function 6. Worsening scoliosis or orthopedic deformities 7. Pain at the Spina Bifida closure site