Klippel-Feil syndrome is a condition where vertebrae in the neck are fused together, causing limited movement and secondary conditions. It can also lead to scoliosis and other abnormalities. Treatment includes physical therapy, surgery, and caution in physical activities.
Klippel-Feil syndrome is a condition in which several vertebrae in the neck are fused together. This disorder develops early in a child’s development, usually in the first one to two months. It manifests itself in limited movement of the neck and head, uncomfortable head resting position and short neck, and can cause a number of secondary conditions.
There are seven vertebrae in the neck, and in Klippel-Feil syndrome there are at least two that do not develop the separation that normally allows the vertebrae to move. It is also possible to fuse more than two vertebrae together; the more fused they are, the greater the symptoms. Outward signs of a problem may include a low hairline in the back that falls lower than normal on the neck, as well as a relatively short neck and asymmetrical facial features. There is also a high case of scoliosis found in individuals with Klippel-Feil syndrome. Since the fusion of the vertebrae occurs before birth, the condition is always present.
The health of the neck and spine is vital to the health of the rest of the body; because of this relationship, there are also a number of conditions associated with Klippel-Feil syndrome. An individual may have difficulty swallowing or chewing, be vulnerable to frequent headaches or dizziness, and exhibit varying degrees of blurred vision or deafness. There are a number of symptoms and deficiencies associated with the disorder; some individuals may have cleft palate, skull tumors, or urinary system abnormalities as severe as a missing kidney.
The prognosis varies with the severity of each case. With proper treatment, many individuals born with Klippel-Feil syndrome develop minimal consequences from the disorder. Mechanical symptoms such as limited range of motion in the neck and head can be treated and minimized with physical therapy. In other more serious cases, an individual can become paralyzed after a minor trauma to the neck or spine, so extreme caution must be exercised in all activities. No matter what the severity, those with Klippel-Feil syndrome should avoid contact sports and other activities where there is a potential for physical trauma or impact injury.
Most cases involve some sort of physical therapy in treatment. Other options include surgery or the careful application of traction to increase range of motion and reduce the impact of other symptoms. In some individuals, vertebrae that are not fused can become more flexible than vertebrae found in healthy spines, compensating for areas with lack of motion.
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