Neuro & Physical
Spina bifida
Spina bifida is a congenital condition where the spine does not fully close during fetal development. This can result in varying degrees of spinal cord and nerve damage, potentially affecting mobility, bladder and bowel control, and in some cases learning and coordination. Severity varies widely, and support is built around each individual's specific needs.
What the evidence says
CDC tracked
spina bifida is one of the most common neural tube conditions tracked by the CDC
- A visible sac or gap on the back, exposing tissue and nerves, often identified at birth
- Difficulties with walking or mobility
- Bladder and bowel control issues
- In some cases, challenges with learning and coordination
This is a guide, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional can assess.
- Physiotherapy to support mobility, strength and coordination
- Occupational therapy to build independence in daily activities
- Coordination with medical teams for ongoing management of bladder, bowel or other associated needs
- Family support and guidance as needs change over time
The care pathway
What each professional actually does here
Care for this concern is usually shared. Here is how each discipline contributes, so nothing feels like a black box.
Physiotherapists build individualised exercise and mobility programmes to support movement and coordination, adapting to the level of spinal cord involvement for each child.
Explore this serviceOccupational therapists work on functional independence in everyday tasks, supporting participation at home and school alongside the physiotherapy plan.
Explore this serviceWho you'd work with
The disciplines involved
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Paediatric Physiotherapy
Paediatric Physiotherapy
Movement-focused therapy for infants and children with developmental, postural or motor concerns.
Learn moreOccupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Supporting children and adults to build the everyday skills that make participation, learning and independence possible.
Learn moreQuestions
Spina bifida: questions people ask us
Short, honest answers about who helps, what to expect and how care is coordinated.
It is a congenital condition where the spine does not fully close during fetal development, resulting in varying degrees of spinal cord and nerve involvement.
No, severity varies significantly. Some individuals have minor symptoms, while others face significant mobility, bladder, bowel or coordination challenges requiring ongoing therapeutic and medical support.
Physiotherapy supports mobility and coordination, while occupational therapy builds independence in daily tasks. Care is typically ongoing and coordinated with medical teams.
In some cases, yes. Coordination and learning-related challenges can occur alongside physical symptoms, and these are assessed and supported as part of an overall plan.
Take the next step
Tell us what's happening, we'll suggest where to start
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself- we match you after a first conversation.
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