Arthrogryposis

Arthrogryposis is a congenital condition marked by contractures in multiple joints, limiting movement and often affecting muscles and limbs. It describes a clinical feature shared by many underlying disorders.

Fetal akinesia: Reduced or absent fetal movement during pregnancy. Limited movement in the womb is a common pathway leading to congenital contractures.
Contracture: Persistent restriction of a joint's range of motion caused by shortening or stiffness of surrounding tissues. This general finding explains the fixed positions seen in arthrogryposis.
Physical therapy: A health profession that uses movement, exercise, and related methods to improve physical function. Early therapy helps maintain joint mobility and develop functional movement.
Amyoplasia: A common form of arthrogryposis involving underdeveloped muscles and multiple joint contractures. It is a recognizable clinical form with a characteristic pattern of limb involvement.
Cerebral palsy: A group of permanent movement and posture disorders caused by disturbances in the developing brain. Unlike arthrogryposis, cerebral palsy arises from brain disturbance and is not defined by contractures present at birth.
Congenital contracture: A joint restriction present at birth because surrounding tissues limit its range of motion. Contractures are the defining physical finding in arthrogryposis.
Congenital disorder: A health condition that is present at birth, whether inherited or acquired during development. Arthrogryposis is present at birth, though its causes vary.
Occupational therapy: A health profession that supports participation in daily activities through adaptation and skill development. Therapy can help people with limited joint movement manage self-care and everyday tasks.
Distal arthrogryposis: A group of conditions chiefly affecting joints of the hands and feet. These disorders show how arthrogryposis can be limited mainly to distal joints.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A group of inherited connective-tissue disorders often involving joint hypermobility and fragile tissues. Its joint hypermobility contrasts with the restricted movement typical of arthrogryposis.

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