What is: Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that involves the incomplete development of the spinal cord or its coverings. Children with spina bifida often have problems with bowel and bladder control, and some may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other learning difficulties, such as hand-eye coordination problems. Most affected individuals will require braces, crutches, walkers or wheelchairs to maximize their mobility. The higher the level of the spina bifida defect the more severe the paralysis. Thus, those with low levels may need only short leg braces while those with higher levels do best with a wheelchair.

http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/4439_1224.asp

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/spina-bifida/DS00417

http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2642297/k.5F7C/Spina_Bifida_Association.htm