MEGA Cross Categorical Special Education Practice Test

What is a common complication for a student with spina bifida who wears ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs)?

1. low blood sugar

2. pressure sores

3. high blood pressure

4. bone fractures

The correct answer is: pressure sores

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly used by students with spina bifida to support their joints and limbs, but their use can lead to complications, one of the most significant being pressure sores. Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers, develop when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, often over bony areas. In the case of AFOs, the device can create friction and pressure points on the skin, especially if the fit is not proper or if the student is in the orthoses for extended periods. Students with spina bifida may often have decreased sensation in their lower extremities, making them less aware of the discomfort that precedes the development of pressure sores. As a result, timely intervention and regular monitoring of skin integrity are crucial to prevent these sores from becoming serious health issues. While the other potential complications like low blood sugar, high blood pressure, and bone fractures can occur in various contexts related to different health conditions or treatments, pressure sores are specifically more closely associated with the use of AFOs and the anatomy of students with spina bifida. This connection highlights why pressure sores are considered a common complication for these individuals when using orthotic devices.