What impairments are associated with foot deformities in spina bifida?

• A. Pain, limited weight-bearing, limit shoe fitting, and increased risk of pressure sores and ulceration
• B. Height increase
• C. Improved gait efficiency
• D. Decreased risk of ulcers

Answer: (A)

Foot deformities in spina bifida are driven by neuromuscular changes that alter how the foot holds itself and bears weight. This leads to pain and functional limits because standing and walking place uneven pressures on a foot with an abnormal shape. The deformity often makes weight bearing painful, limits how much weight you can put on the foot, and makes finding comfortable footwear difficult. Because sensation can be reduced and the foot’s shape creates pressure points, there’s a higher risk of skin breakdown, pressure sores, and ulcers if the foot isn’t protected and properly managed. In short, these deformities upset weight distribution and tissue tolerance, producing pain, weight-bearing limits, shoe-fitting challenges, and a greater likelihood of ulcers. Height changes are not a consequence of foot deformities, gait is typically less efficient rather than improved, and ulcers are more, not less, likely.