Intervening factors in the walking of children presenting myelomeningocele

INTRODUCTION: All children presenting myelomeningocele are capable of walking. Certain interventions can influence the walking prognosis of these children: physical therapy, medication, and nutritional orientation. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to verify the association between ability to walk in children with myelomeningocele and clinical, socioeconomic and therapeutic factors. METHOD: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the University Hospital. The participants were children aged two years-old or more, diagnosed with myelomeningocele. Data collection was conducted by physical therapy assessment and medical records. The dependent variable was walking and the independent variables were clinical, socioeconomic and therapeutic factors. RESULTS: Forty-one children were evaluated, with a median age of 5 years-old (2-9). The clinical factors that revealed an association with walking were neurological area (p < 0,0001) and fractures (p = 0,022). Socioeconomic factors showed not to be significant in relation to ability to walk. Surgery (p = 0,017) and the use of assistive devices (p = 0,023) were also associated with the ability to walk. Conclusion: The determinant clinical factor for walking prognosis was the neurological area. The use of assistive devices and surgical intervention were shown to be necessary for promoting walking activity.