Children with Spina Bifida: A Parents' Guide

Thoroughly revised and updated, this compassionate and comprehensive guide covers the medical, therapeutic and educational issues that arise from birth to age six. Chapters focus on specific issues, such as: ? Causes of spina bifida ? Prenatal diagnosis ? Neurosurgery ? Urological and bowel management ? Orthopedic concerns ? Physical therapy ? Common medical problems ? Development ? Day-to-day parenting issues ? Education and accommodations ? A child's emotional health ? Legal rights and hurdles ? Perspectives from adolescents and adults with spina bifida New to this edition is the latest information on research and medical advancements, including prenatal testing and surgery; new treatments and medications; the link between low folic acid levels and spina bifida; new rating systems for assessing mobility; an overview of orthotics and wheelchair options; changes to federal education law (IDEA); and much more. Resource guide and glossary included.