Arthrogryposis

What is arthrogryposis?
Arthrogryposis is a rare congenital disorder that causes multiple joint contractures. It is a non-progressive disease.

What causes arthrogryposis?
The cause is unknown. To date, no prenatal diagnosis tools are available.

What are the symptoms?
In the most common type of the disorder, the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, feet and knees are affected. In the most severe forms, nearly every joint, including the jaw and back, is affected. Frequently, contractures are accompanied by muscle weakness which further limits movement.

How is it treated?
Although there is no cure, the symptoms and deformities may be alleviated by various medical therapies. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are usually utilized. Since there is a variety of different deformities, individually tailored orthopedic correction is needed.