What is included in the orthopedics role in spina bifida management?

• A. Evaluate spine alignment and limb flexibility, strength and joint integrity
• B. Monitor bowel/bladder function
• C. Check shunt functioning
• D. Assist in management of obesity

Answer: (A)

In spina bifida care, the orthopedic role focuses on the musculoskeletal system—how the spine and limbs align, move, and support the body. Children with spina bifida often develop scoliosis or other spinal curvatures, as well as deformities in the hips, knees, ankles, and feet due to nerve and muscle weaknesses. An orthopedic assessment scopes out spine alignment and how the limbs respond to movement: range of motion, strength, and joint stability. This information is essential because it helps determine what keeps a child functionally active and comfortable—whether that’s physical therapy, bracing, orthotics, or, if needed, surgical correction.

Regularly checking spine and limb status as the child grows is important because deformities can progress over time and impact standing, walking, transfers, and seating. The orthopedic team works with rehabilitation specialists to optimize posture, gait, and wheelchair positioning, reduce contractures, and preserve function and quality of life.

Other areas, like bowel and bladder monitoring or shunt checks, involve different specialties such as neurosurgery or urology, and obesity management involves nutrition and overall physical activity strategies. The orthopedic focus, by contrast, is specifically on spine alignment and limb joint health and function.