Spina Bifida and Tethered Cord

Steady Support for Spinal Cord Conditions — From Birth Through Growth

At KidsHeart Medical Center, we care for children with conditions that affect how the spinal cord formed — or how it’s functioning over time.
Spina bifida and tethered cord syndrome are spinal defects that can impact walking, bladder control, and neurological development.

Some are diagnosed before birth. Others show symptoms gradually as a child grows.
Our Pediatric Neurology team works closely with pediatric neurosurgeons, urologists, and therapists across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain — offering coordinated, long-term support for your child’s needs.

What Are Spina Bifida and Tethered Cord?

Spina Bifida is a birth defect where the spinal column doesn’t close completely. Severity can range from minor to significant, depending on nerve involvement.
Tethered Cord Syndrome occurs when the spinal cord is abnormally attached inside the spinal canal, limiting its movement and stretching nerves.

Both conditions may lead to:

Leg weakness or foot deformities
Bladder and bowel control problems
Abnormal gait or scoliosis
Sensory loss or back pain
Coordination or balance issues

Some cases are detected early. Others emerge later, requiring vigilant monitoring.

When Should You Seek Neurological Evaluation?

See a Pediatric Neurologist if your child:

Was diagnosed prenatally or at birth with spina bifida
Shows signs of tethered cord (leg weakness, foot asymmetry, bladder issues)
Has a sacral dimple, tuft of hair, or skin changes over the spine
Complains of lower back pain or gait abnormalities
Has scoliosis without a clear cause
Had prior spinal surgery and needs monitoring

Prompt evaluation can prevent worsening nerve damage — and support better outcomes.

How We Evaluate and Support Spinal Cord Conditions

Here’s how we care for children with these conditions:

Clinical History and Physical Examination: We review birth findings, development, gait, and bladder/bowel control.
Neurological Assessment: Focuses on strength, sensation, reflexes, and coordination.
MRI of the Spine: Confirms diagnosis and assesses the degree of tethering or malformation.
Urological and Orthopedic Coordination: We involve the right specialties based on symptoms.
Monitoring and Surgical Planning: For progressive symptoms, we refer to pediatric neurosurgery for potential untethering.

Our care doesn’t stop at diagnosis — we guide each stage, from infancy through adolescence.