Spina bifida is a condition affecting the spinal cord and the central nervous system. It occurs during the development of the spinal cord and involves the incomplete closure of the vertebrae or backbones. This results in the spinal cord and surrounding structures of the central nervous system protruding into the unclosed area, presenting as a varying bulge in the back, depending on the severity of the condition.
Although spina bifida can occur at any level of the back, it is usually seen around the lower back.
Symptoms and characteristics
There are three classifications of spina bifida: occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. These classifications are explained below:
Occulta
This is the mildest form of the condition. The spinal cord and surrounding structures bulge into the unclosed part of the vertebrae, but remain intact and are not damaged. There is usually no bulge on the back, but there is often a dimple or hair at the site. Due to the frequent absence of damage to the cord, most people with spina bifida occulta are unaware they have the condition.
Meningocele
In this form, part of the spinal structures, called the meninges, have been damaged, resulting in a sac-like bulge on the back filled with spinal fluid. The nerves remain intact in this form, however, leg and pelvic function may be affected to varying degrees.
Myelomeningocele
This is the most severe form of the condition, as it involves damage to the spinal cord, nervous tissue and the surrounding meninges. As a result, there is almost always some degree of leg and or pelvic paralysis, which varies according to the severity of the condition and the vertebral level at which it occurs. This also presents as a sac on the back. Associated symptoms may include:
- hydrocephalus (enlargement of the skull)
- scoliosis or lateral twisting of the spine
- foot injuries
- contractures where muscles shorten over joints
- renal (kidney) dysfunction
- bowel and bladder incontinence
- learning difficulties.
In general, the higher up the spinal cord the damage, the more likely the person is to have some or all of these associated symptoms. Further information can be found regarding specific symptoms at:
Workplace solutions and adjustments
If a person has spina bifida to the extent that it has affected their physical and or intellectual condition, they may require some adjustments in the workplace. Physical adjustments may include making the workplace wheelchair accessible, installing ramps and handrails, or modifying doorways. Workers with an intellectual impairment may require occasional co-worker assistance, adjustments to the pace of the job or modification of the job role. Special consideration may be necessary in regard to the person’s toileting requirements while at work.
The Employment Assistance Fund provides financial assistance for work related modifications, equipment and services to help people with disability to get employment and perform their work as independently and productively as possible. To determine eligibility, please refer to the full guidelines:
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
Case studies and success stories
For job seekers and employees:
For service providers:
References
Better Health Channel 2010, Spina bifida explained, Victorian Government Department of Health, Melbourne, viewed 15 December 2011, http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/(Pages)/Spina_bifida_explained?OpenDocument.
Spina Bifida Foundation Victoria 2011, Spina Bifida: The Facts, The Spina Bifida Foundation of Victoria, Melbourne, viewed 15 December 2011, http://www.sbfv.org.au/what-is-spina-bifida.html.