Which of the following is a primary impairment of spina bifida?

• A. Paralysis and weakness in muscle groups below the level of the lesion
• B. External/internal femoral/tibial torsions
• C. Obesity
• D. Clubfoot

Answer: (A)

Spina bifida causes a disruption of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the level of the lesion, so the main problem is the loss of motor function and sensation in the parts of the body served by nerves below that level. This shows up as paralysis or weakness in the muscles of the legs and feet, with potential sensory changes and altered reflexes that reflect the specific level of the lesion. The body’s mobility and gait are directly affected because the nerves controlling those muscles aren’t functioning normally.

Other issues like torsion of the femur or tibia, clubfoot, or obesity can occur with spina bifida, but these are secondary consequences related to muscle imbalance, deformity, or reduced activity, rather than the direct consequence of the neural defect itself.