Article

OBJECTIVE: To provide descriptive data on ambulatory ability and muscle strength
in a large cohort of individuals with spina bifida enrolled in a National Spina
Bifida Patient Registry and to investigate factors associated with ambulatory
status. DESIGN: Cross-sectional analysis of data from a multisite patient
registry. RESULTS: Descriptive analysis of mobility variables for 2604
individuals with spina bifida aged 5 and older are presented from 19 sites in the
United States. Analysis of a subset of National Spina Bifida Patient Registry
data from 380 individuals from 3 sites accompanied by data from a specialized
spina bifida electronic medical record revealed that those with no history of a
shunt, lower motor level, and no history of hip or knee contracture release
surgery were more likely to be ambulatory at the community level than at the
household or wheelchair level. CONCLUSION: This study is the first to examine
factors associated with ambulatory status in a large sample of individuals with
myelomeningocele and nonmyelomeningocele subtypes of spina bifida. Results of
this study delineate the breadth of strength and functional abilities within the
different age groups and subtypes of spina bifida. The results may inform
physicians of the characteristics of those with varying ambulatory abilities. TO
CLAIM CME CREDITS: Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at
http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME CME OBJECTIVES:: Upon completion of this
article, the reader should be able to: (1) Understand the scope of mobility
limitations in individuals with spina bifida;
(2) Appreciate the impact of
certain factors on themobility status of individuals with spina bifida; and (3)
Use knowledge of factors affecting mobility in individuals with spina bifida to
direct treatment. LEVEL: Advanced ACCREDITATION: : The Association of Academic
Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical
Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The Association
of Academic Physiatrists designates this activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA
Category 1 Credit(s). Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the
extent of their participation in the activity.

Langue : ANGLAIS