Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Spina bifida? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

Yes, exercise is highly recommended for individuals living with spina bifida, as it is essential for maintaining mobility, cardiovascular health, and bone density. Engaging in a tailored physical activity program can significantly improve quality of life and help manage symptoms like muscle weakness and executive function challenges, provided you obtain clearance from your multidisciplinary medical team.

Why is exercise beneficial for spina bifida?

For the 207 members of our spina bifida community at DiseaseMaps.org, movement serves as a vital tool for symptom management. Regular physical activity helps counteract the sedentary lifestyle that can result from paralysis or loss of sensation. Beyond strengthening the muscular and skeletal systems, exercise releases endorphins that support emotional well-being and helps mitigate the fatigue often associated with spina bifida.

What types of activities are safe and effective?

The goal is to find activities that accommodate your specific level of lesion and mobility. Always start slowly and focus on consistency rather than high intensity. Beneficial activities often include:

• Swimming and aquatic therapy: Buoyancy reduces stress on joints and allows for a full range of motion for those with limited lower-limb function.


• Adaptive strength training: Using resistance bands or light weights to build upper-body strength, which is crucial for wheelchair users.


• Chair yoga or seated Pilates: Excellent for improving flexibility, posture, and core stability without requiring balance on the feet.


• Handcycling: A fantastic cardiovascular exercise that builds endurance and promotes independence.

How can I start an exercise program safely?

Before beginning any new regimen, consult your neurosurgeon and orthopedist to ensure your spine and shunt (if applicable) are stable. Because spina bifida can involve a loss of sensation, you must perform regular skin checks to prevent pressure sores or injuries you might not feel. If you are having a difficult day, utilize "pacing": break your activity into 10-minute intervals rather than pushing for a long session.

What should I avoid?

Approach high-impact activities or contact sports with extreme caution, as they may increase the risk of skeletal fractures or shunt complications. Always prioritize activities that do not place excessive, unprotected pressure on areas of the body where sensation is diminished.

Next steps

• Schedule an evaluation with a physical therapist specializing in spina bifida to create a personalized plan.


• Join our community at DiseaseMaps.org to share movement strategies with others living with spina bifida.


• Monitor your skin daily for redness or irritation after any physical exertion.

Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice; always consult your primary care physician before starting a new exercise program.

References

• NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) - Spina Bifida


• Orphanet: Spina bifida (ORPHA:3197)


• Spina Bifida Association (SBA) - Physical Activity Guidelines