SPINA BIFIDA-L1 TO L3 LESIONS

SUMMARY

1. Hip dislocations common, due to unopposed hip flexors (if these are intact).

2. L1-L2: unlikely to walk, except with HKAFO or RGO.

3. L3: may have enough quads strength to walk with gait aid.

4. Hip and knee flexion contractures are common.

5. Often have a crouched gait due to plantar flexion weakness, may benefit from GRAFO.

6. Crutches & WC may be required with high lumbar lesions.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.