How can you prevent arthrogryposis?
Family education is important for proper positioning, stretching techniques and avoiding potentially harmful activities that could feed into deformity. Splinting and casting can be used by therapists or providers to help with stretching and positioning as well as reducing joint contractures.
How do you treat arthrogryposis?
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.
Which of the following conditions may be present at the birth of a child with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita?
The most common universal symptom of AMC is limited or absent movement around small and large joints (contractures). The contractures are present at birth (congenital). The muscles of the affected limbs may be underdeveloped (hypoplastic), resulting in a tube-shaped limb with a soft, doughy feeling.
Does arthrogryposis worsen?
Arthrogryposis does not get worse over time. For most children, treatment can lead to big improvements in how they can move and what they can do. Most children with arthrogryposis have typical thinking and language skills. Most have a normal life span.
Is arthrogryposis progressive?
Arthrogryposis, also called arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), involves a variety of non-progressive conditions that are characterized by multiple joint contractures (stiffness) and involves muscle weakness found throughout the body at birth.
Does arthrogryposis cause pain?
A literature review by Cirillo et al indicated that in patients with arthrogryposis, adults have a greater tendency to experience pain than do children, with self reports of pain being more common in individuals in whom multiple corrective procedures have been performed.
Is arthrogryposis a birth defect?
What is Arthrogryposis? Arthrogryposis is a congenital (present at birth) condition characterized by the reduced mobility of many joints. The joints are fixed in various postures and lack muscle development and growth. There are many different types of Arthrogryposis and the symptoms vary among affected children.
Is arthrogryposis a disability?
Arthrogryposis (Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita) is a non-progressive physical disability characterized by the presence of multiple fixed joints throughout the body at birth.
What is the prognosis for arthrogryposis?
Prognosis. The main point to remember is that AMC is not a progressive disorder. Typically these children have normal speech and learning capabilities and with proper care, vigorous therapy and in some cases, surgical interventions, the potential for them to lead productive, rewarding, independent lives is excellent.