Rare Diseases Types Arthrogryposis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prognosis Congenital Defect of the Joints By Mary Kugler, RN Mary Kugler, RN Mary Kugler, RN, is a pediatric nurse whose specialty is caring for children with long-term or severe medical problems. Learn about our editorial process Updated on May 06, 2020 Medically reviewed Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Kashif J. Piracha, MD Medically reviewed by Kashif J. Piracha, MD LinkedIn Kashif J. Piracha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 14 years of experience treating patients in acute care hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. Learn about our Medical Expert Board Print Arthrogryposis or arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is the name given to a group of disorders characterized by the development of multiple joint contractures throughout the body. A contracture is a condition where a joint becomes stiff and fixed in a bent or straight position, causing restrictions in the movement of that joint. Photodisc/DigitalVision The condition develops before birth (it is a congenital defect) and in the U.S., it occurs about once per every 3,000 to 5,000 live births, affecting both males and females of all ethnic backgrounds. More than one body part has to be affected for the disorder to be referred to as arthrogryposis. If a congenital contracture occurs only in one area of the body (such as the feet, a condition called clubfoot) then it is an isolated congenital contracture and not arthrogryposis. When two or more different areas of the body are affected by arthrogryposis, the condition may be referred to as arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) and sometimes both names are used interchangeably. There are more than 150 types of AMC, with amyoplasia being the most common and accounting for more than 40% of all AMC cases. Common Causes Arthrogryposis is usually caused by decreased fetal movements in the womb. The fetus needs movement in the limbs to develop muscle and joints. If the joints don't move, extra connective tissue develops around the joint and fixes it in place. Some of the causes of decreased fetal movements are: Malformations or malfunctions of the central nervous system (most common cause), such as spina bifida, brain malformations, or spinal muscular atrophy An inherited neuromuscular disorder such as myotonic dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, or multiple sclerosis Maternal infections during pregnancy such as German measles (rubella) or rubeola Maternal fever above 39C (102.2F) for an extended period, or increased maternal body temperature caused by prolonged soaking in hot tubs Maternal exposure to substances that can harm the fetus, such as drugs, alcohol, or an anti-seizure medication called phenytoin (Dilantin) Too little amniotic fluid or chronic leaking of amniotic fluid may cause reduced space for the fetus to move around Symptoms The particular joint contractures found in an infant with arthrogryposis vary from child to child, but there are several common characteristics: The legs and arms are affected, with wrists and ankles being the most deformed (think of the fetus folded up inside the uterus, then locked in that position)The joints in the legs and arms may not be able to move at allMuscles in the legs and arms are thin and weak or even absentThe hips may be dislocated Some infants with arthrogryposis have facial deformities, a curvature of the spine, genital deformities, cardiac and respiratory problems, and skin defects. Treatment There is no cure for arthrogryposis, and treatment is directed towards specific symptoms an individual may be experiencing. For example, early vigorous physical therapy can help stretch out the contracted joints and develop the weak muscles. Splints can also help stretch joints, especially at night. Orthopedic surgery may also be able to relieve or correct joint problems. Ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan can identify any central nervous system abnormalities. These may or may not require surgery to treat. Congenital heart defects may need to be repaired. Prognosis The lifespan of an individual with arthrogryposis is usually normal but may be altered by heart defects or central nervous system problems. In general, the prognosis for children with amyoplasia is good, though most children require intensive therapy for years. Almost two-thirds are eventually able to walk (with or without braces) and attend school. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit 4 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Kowalczyk B, Feluś J. Arthrogryposis: an update on clinical aspects, etiology, and treatment strategies. Arch Med Sci. 2016;12(1):10-24. doi:10.5114/aoms.2016.57578 Sucuoglu H, Ornek NI, Caglar C. Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita: Multiple Congenital Joint Contractures. Case Rep Med. 2015;2015:379730. doi:10.1155/2015/379730 Vila-vives JM, Hidalgo-mora JJ, Soler I, Rubio J, Quiroga R, Perales A. Fetal arthrogryposis secondary to a giant maternal uterine leiomyoma. Case Rep Obstet Gynecol. 2012;2012:726732. doi:10.1155/2012/726732 Binkiewicz-glinska A, Sobierajska-rek A, Bakula S, et al. Arthrogryposis in infancy, multidisciplinary approach: case report. BMC Pediatr. 2013;13:184. doi:10.1186/1471-2431-13-184 Additional Reading National Organization for Rare Diseases. Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita.