As your child with spina bifida gains greater independence, the risk of fracture of the upper or lower bones of the leg increases. Beginning at about age 11, fracture risk increases as the child becomes more independent and has less supervision.

A study done in 2007 by a spina bifida program in Syracuse, New York, sought to determine the number of fractures in children, adolescents, and adults with spina bifida. Researchers also wanted to answer what type of fracture occured in each age group and if there were risk factors for each age group.

Participants (221) in the study ranged in age from 2 to 58 years. Patient self-report of fractures, documentation of fractures, and personal identification such as age, sex, ability to walk, etc. were used for the study.

The study documented greater fracture risk in adolescence. It was unable to make conclusions about specific environmental risk factors, as many fractures were not witnessed. Consequently, the way in which the fracture was caused could not be identified. Authors also commented that bone density may play a role in fracture risk.


The overall fracture rate among children, adolescents, and adults varied from approximately 2% to 3%. The authors had theorised that because adults were often overweight and not as active as children and adolescents, they may be at less risk for fracture. However, results indicated that weight and activity were not a contributing factor to lack of fracture.

The study did indicate that making changes in the environment of adolescent children may aid in preventing fractures. Researchers proposed further testing to see whether modification of the environment for adolescents with spina bifida may be helpful.

For more information: "Incidence, prevalence, and characteristics of fractures in children, adolescents, and adults with spina bifida,” N. Dosa, MD, MPH; M. Eckrich, MD; D. Katz, MD; M. Turk, MD; G. Liptak, MD, MPH, Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 30(suppl 1): S5-SI, 2007.

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Symptoms of Spina Bifida differ with age.  For more information, see Spina Bifida Patients Encounter Different Problems as Young Adults.