Symptoms Of Spina Bifida

Leg Paralysis Or Weakness

Paralysis results in the loss of mobility. Specifically, a patient will not be able to move some or all of the body at all. It can result from a variety of causes and, though it is sometimes only temporary, serious cases can be permanent. Leg paralysis or weakness is a fairly common occurrence in patients diagnosed with spina bifida. This is because the buildup of fluid can cause such extreme pressure that the nerves controlling movement are damaged. The entire nervous system can also suffer, beginning with weakness and gradually progressing into paralysis. If you notice weakness that cannot be attributed to a normal event, seek medical attention immediately.

Coordination Problems

The buildup of fluid that occurs in spina bifida can also cause both long and short-term coordination problems. When the fluid puts too much pressure on the cerebellum, the language processing and physical coordination center of the brain, these functions and processes suffer. Visual coordination is also a side effect that can occur because of the fluid buildup in the brain, making seemingly easy and mundane tasks, like tying one's shoes, difficult to impossible. When the lower limbs become weakened enough, the patient may also be required to wear leg braces to prevent the misshaping of bones and dislocating of joints.