Spina bifida is a congenital condition that occurs when the protective structures of the spinal cord do not close completely during prenatal development. This condition can affect the nerves in the spinal cord and lead to loss of motor-sensory functions. Romatem Hospital aims to improve the quality of life and support the independence of individuals living with spina bifida by offering comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation programs.

What is Spina Bifida?

Spina bifida is a congenital anomaly characterized by the failure of the protective layers between the spinal cord and the spine to close properly. This condition can cause different levels of nerve damage and the symptoms vary according to the severity of the damage. Spina bifida can be classified into three different types:

1. Spina Bifida Oculata: This is the mildest form and usually has no obvious symptoms. Most people can live with the condition without realizing it.
2. Meningocele Occurs when the membrane of the spinal cord protrudes. Nerves are usually spared, but may require surgical intervention.
3. Myelomeningocele: The most severe form. The spinal cord and nerves are located outside the spine. This can cause severe motor and sensory loss.

Symptoms of Spina Bifida

Symptoms of spina bifida vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. The most common symptoms are:

1. Restricted Movement: Weakness and restricted movement, especially in the lower extremities.
2. Sensory Loss: Loss of sensation or numbness in the affected areas.
3. Spinal Deformities: Spinal curvatures such as scoliosis or kyphosis.
4. Urinary and Bowel Problems: Loss of bladder and bowel control.
5. Muscle Spasms Painful muscle spasms caused by nerve damage.
6. Risk of Injury and Infection: The risk of skin injury increases due to loss of sensation.

What happens if Spina Bifida is not treated?

Untreated spina bifida can severely affect an individual's quality of life and lead to long-term complications:

1. Permanent limitation of movement: Musculoskeletal problems can progress over time, further limiting an individual's mobility.
2. Spinal Deformations: Without treatment, deformations such as scoliosis can become more pronounced.
3. Bladder and Bowel Problems: Urinary tract infections and other bladder problems can become chronic.
4. Psychosocial Effects: Restricted mobility and loss of independence can cause psychological and social problems in individuals.

Spina Bifida Rehabilitation Methods

It adopts a multidisciplinary approach to spina bifida rehabilitation and offers personalized treatment programs tailored to the needs of patients. The main methods applied are as follows:

1. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:
   • Muscle Strengthening Exercises: Applied to prevent muscle weakness and increase mobility.
   • Flexibility and Balance Exercises: Aim to improve balance by increasing the range of motion of joints.
   • Robotic Rehabilitation: With the help of advanced devices, mobility and gait patterns are worked on.
2. Occupational Therapy:
   Strategies and techniques tailored to personal needs are taught to increase independence in daily living activities. For example, activities such as eating, dressing, or school activities are worked on.
3. Manual Therapy:
   Special techniques are applied by hand to reduce muscle and joint tension, relieve pain, and increase mobility.
4. Hot and Cold Therapies:
   • Hot Applications: Relieves pain by relaxing the muscles and increases blood circulation.
   • Cold Compress: Reduces muscle spasms and inflammation.
5. Family Counseling:
   Working in collaboration with family members, information is provided about exercises, care methods, and supportive activities that can be implemented at home. Family support is critical to the success of rehabilitation.
6. Psychological Support:
   Psychotherapy and counseling services are offered to help individuals cope with the challenges of living with spina bifida.

Advantages of Spina Bifida Rehabilitation

Spina bifida rehabilitation programs aim to improve the quality of life and promote independence. The advantages of these rehabilitation programs:

1. Functional Improvement: Motor functions and daily living skills are developed.
2. Pain Reduction: Muscle pains and spasms are alleviated with hot-cold therapies and manual therapy.
3. Enhancing Mobility: Individuals' mobility is increased through physical therapy and exercises.
4. Prevention of Spinal Deformities: Rehabilitation programs help prevent the progression of deformities such as scoliosis.
5. Achieving Independence: Through occupational therapy and training in daily living activities, individuals' independence is enhanced.
6. Family Collaboration: Family involvement in the process enhances patients' social support and facilitates the home care process.