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Current Trends for Children With Spina Bifida: A Survey of Pediatric Physical Therapists
Megan B Flores1, Elizabeth M Ardolino, Kathleen J Manella
1Department of Physical Therapy (Drs Flores and Ardolino), Baylor University, Waco, Texas; Doctor of Physical Therapy Program (Manella), Nova Southeastern University - Tampa Bay Regional Campus, Clearwater, Florida.
Insights
Physical therapists (PTs) in the US assess and manage children with spina bifida (SB) focusing on activity limitations like walking. More research is needed to enhance PT best practices for pediatric SB care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric physical therapy
- Spina bifida management
- International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework
Background:
- Spina bifida (SB) is a complex congenital condition requiring comprehensive management.
- Physical therapy (PT) plays a crucial role in addressing functional limitations in children with SB.
- The ICF framework provides a standardized approach to describing health and disability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate current physical therapy practices for children with spina bifida (SB).
- To analyze SB management through the lens of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional electronic survey was distributed to US pediatric physical therapy clinics.
- The survey data were collected and analyzed using content analysis techniques.
- Participants included 163 physical therapists involved in pediatric SB care.
Main Results:
- Most assessments targeted the ICF Activity component.
- Commonly reported impairments included decreased strength (17.9%).
- Activity limitations centered on limited walking (22.5%), and participation restrictions involved social interaction (22.6%).
- Strength training was the most frequent intervention.
Conclusions:
- US physical therapists utilize evidence-based assessments and interventions for children with SB.
- Enhanced knowledge translation is necessary to advance PT best practices.
- Further research is recommended to optimize the management of pediatric spina bifida.
Purpose:
To describe contemporary physical therapy practice and management of children with spina bifida (SB) in the context of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework.
Methods:
A descriptive, cross-sectional electronic survey was sent to US pediatric physical therapy clinics and posted in the American Physical Therapy Association Pediatrics newsletter. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Codes were compared, refined, and condensed into categories.
Results:
A total of 163 participants were included. Most assessments evaluated the ICF Activity component. Most frequently reported ICF components: impairments = decreased strength (17.9%), activity limitations = limited walking (22.5%), and participation restrictions = restricted socializing/playing with peers or siblings (22.6%). The most prevalent intervention was strength training.
Conclusions:
Physical therapists (PTs) in the United States are performing assessments and interventions supported by available evidence; however, knowledge translation and more research are needed to support best practices in PT management of children with SB.
