Current Trends for Children With Spina Bifida: A Survey of Pediatric Physical Therapists

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.