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How can spina bifida affect leg movement and bladder control?
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childhood disease and disorder
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Spina bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs when the vertebral column fails to close properly during embryonic development, leaving the spinal cord unprotected.1
The impact on leg movement and bladder control depends on the severity of the defect:
- Leg Movement: In serious forms of the condition, such as myelocele or meningomyelocele, children often experience paralysis in the parts of the body located below the site of the spinal defect. This can result in complete paralysis of the legs or the development of paraplegia.1
- Bladder Control: The impairment of the spinal cord often disrupts the neurological signals required for normal bodily functions. Consequently, bladder and bowel control may be absent or severely impaired in affected individuals.12
It is important to note that not all forms of spina bifida cause these issues. For instance, spina bifida occulta is a "hidden" form that typically has no effect on body functions and may remain undetected for life.1