Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida is a condition that occurs when the spine and spinal cord do not fully develop during pregnancy. The effects of spina bifida can vary greatly from child to child depending on the level and severity of the spinal involvement. Some children may experience difficulties with muscle strength, mobility, balance, posture, coordination, and sensation, while others may require support with walking, equipment use, endurance, or independence in everyday activities. Many children with spina bifida are also managing associated conditions such as hydrocephalus, orthopaedic changes, or fatigue, which can impact physical development and functional skills over time.
At Mini Wonders, we provide specialist paediatric physiotherapy to help children and young people with spina bifida develop strength, confidence, independence, and functional mobility in a fun, supportive, and motivating environment. We understand that every child’s abilities, goals, and challenges are unique, which is why all therapy programmes are individually tailored to the needs of each child and family.
We believe children achieve the best outcomes when therapy feels engaging and enjoyable. Our sessions are designed around play, movement, games, challenges, and activities that motivate children while supporting important physical development. By building strong relationships and creating positive therapy experiences, we help children gain confidence in their movement and participation in everyday life.
Helping Children with Spina Bifida Thrive
Mini Wonders can help with:
- Thorough physical assessment and identification of needs
- Hands-on therapy to guide movement, motor development, strength, and coordination
- Support for gross motor development and functional mobility
- Postural management and positioning support
- Strengthening and endurance programmes
- Gait training and support for independent mobility
- Stretching and joint range of movement programmes
- Prevention and management of muscle tightness and orthopaedic complications
- Monitoring of posture, spinal alignment, and lower limb changes
- Rehabilitation following orthopaedic or neurosurgical procedures
- Daily home exercise programmes integrated into family routines
- Advice regarding specialist equipment including orthotics, walkers, wheelchairs, standing frames, seating, and sleep systems
How We Work
Depending on the child’s individual goals, therapy may also include treadmill training, hydrotherapy, electrical stimulation, Spider Cage Therapy, TheraSuit® therapy, intensive therapy blocks, and Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI).
We work closely with families, schools, consultants, orthopaedic teams, and wider multidisciplinary professionals to provide coordinated care that supports children across all environments. Our focus is always on helping children maximise independence, improve physical wellbeing, and participate as fully as possible in home, school, and community life.
At Mini Wonders, we celebrate every achievement and are passionate about helping children with spina bifida build the skills, confidence, and resilience to thrive in everyday life.