Arthrogryposis Clinic

Arthrogryposis, also called arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), is a diverse group of more than 300 conditions characterized by stiffness and loss of motion in more than one joint present at birth. The condition is also called multiple congenital contractures. It is caused by shortening or hardening of muscles, tendons or other tissue. Occasionally, other organs may be involved, including the brain and muscles. There are many causes, including genetic and non-genetic types. Common conditions include amyoplasia, congenital myopathies, distal arthrogryposis and muscular dystrophies.

Arthrogryposis can be mild or severe. Symptoms vary and may include:

  • Clubfoot, which is when the foot is twisted
  • Curved spine
  • Difficulty moving the arms and legs
  • Joints that are fixed in one position
  • Weak or missing muscles
  • Webbing or other differences in the skin around the joints

While these conditions are permanent, they typically don’t worsen over time and are treatable. Early treatment, especially in the first two years after birth, is often very successful and can help improve a child’s quality of life.

There are more than 300 conditions that can lead to arthrogryposis. These conditions fall into three categories based on the parts of the body most affected: limbs, limbs and other parts of the body or limbs and the central nervous system.

We evaluate and treat conditions, including:

  • Amyoplasia: A type of arthrogryposis involving shortening, tightening or wearing away of the muscle supporting your joints in the arms, legs and sometimes the spine. There is involvement of the musculoskeletal system alone.
  • Congenital myopathies: A group of genetic conditions that involve the contractile elements of muscles, causing the muscles to become weak over time
  • Distal arthrogryposis: A type of arthrogryposis in which joints in the hands and feet, including the fingers and toes, are involved with sparing of the joints closest to the center of the body (proximal joints)
  • Muscular dystrophies: A group of conditions that affect the structural support proteins that maintain muscle integrity and can cause muscles to degenerate and become weaker over time
  • Other forms of arthrogryposis: Such as multiple Pterygium syndrome, which involves webbed skin at the joints and limited muscle movement, which can restrict motion