Intervening factors in the walking of children presenting myelomeningocele

Abstract

Introduction: All children presenting myelomeningocele are capable of walking. Certain interventionscan influence the walking prognosis of these children: physical therapy, medication, and nutritional orientation.Objectives: The aim of this study was to verify the association between ability to walk in childrenwith myelomeningocele and clinical, socioeconomic and therapeutic factors. Method: This cross-sectionalstudy was conducted at the University Hospital. The participants were children aged two years-old ormore, diagnosed with myelomeningocele. Data collection was conducted by physical therapy assessmentand medical records. The dependent variable was walking and the independent variables were clinical,socioeconomic and therapeutic factors. Results: Forty-one children were evaluated, with a median age of5 years-old (2-9). The clinical factors that revealed an association with walking were neurological area (p < 0,0001) and fractures (p = 0,022). Socioeconomic factors showed not to be significant in relation to ability towalk. Surgery (p = 0,017) and the use of assistive devices (p = 0,023) were also associated with the ability towalk. Conclusion: The determinant clinical factor for walking prognosis was the neurological area. The useof assistive devices and surgical intervention were shown to be necessary for promoting walking activity.