Spina Bifida is a developmental congenital disorder characterized by the incomplete closing of the embryonic neural tube. This often results in exposed vertebrae or spinal cord. This can be corrected with surgery after birth, but does not restore normal function to the affected part of the spinal cord.
Symptoms can include paralysis, weakness of the extremities, bladder and bowel problems, abnormalities of the feet (i.e. club foot), hip dislocation, scoliosis, skin irrations, loss of muscle tone and pressure sores. Risks of developing Spina Bifida can be reduced up to 70% when an expectant mother takes folic acid daily before conception.