Arthrogryposis | Symptoms & Causes
What symptoms might my child have?
Each child experience symptoms differently, but here is a list of some common ones:
- The range of motion of the joints in your child’s arms and legs may be limited or fixed.
- Your child’s shoulders may be rotated inward.
- She may have abnormal extension of her elbows.
- She may be able to flex her wrists and fingers abnormally.
- She could have dislocated hips.
- She may have clubfoot.
Arthrogryposis | Diagnosis & Treatments
How is arthrogryposis diagnosed?
Your child’s doctor can make a diagnosis after a thorough medical history and careful physical examination.
X-rays often confirm the diagnosis and are helpful when your child’s doctor is evaluating stiff or dislocated joints.
Additional tests, including blood tests, muscle biopsies, and other imaging studies, help doctors confirm the diagnosis.
How is arthrogryposis treated?
Your child's doctor may prescribe physical and occupational therapy to increase your child's muscle strength and improve flexibility.
Splints can also increase your child's range of motion. A removable splint works so that the joints can be moved and muscles exercised periodically. In some cases, merely wearing a splint at night may be sufficient.
Surgical options for arthrogryposis
Your child's doctor may recommend surgery to improve how she can position and move her limbs.
These procedures may include muscle releases, tendon transfers, or bone fusions to improve flexibility and correct deformities.
What's my child's long-term outlook?
Your child will most likely have persistent muscular and/or joint limitations due to her underlying condition. Unlike many other conditions, arthrogryposis is non-progressive and does not worsen as your child ages.
With physical therapy and other treatments, your child will likely have substantial improvement in her function. Most children go on to lead productive, independent lives as adults.
Our approach to arthrogryposis
You can have peace of mind knowing that the skilled experts in our Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Department's Hand and Orthopedic Upper Extremity Program have treated thousands of babies and children with many hand conditions. We provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and care, and we benefit from our advanced clinical and scientific research.
Your child will undergo a course of occupational therapy, which will help improve her flexibility and strength in the joints and muscles. Specialists in the Occupational Therapy Program at Boston Children’s will collaborate with you and your child’s doctor to provide the best possible care for your child.
Treatment programs for arthrogryposis are based on thorough evaluations and are always individualized to meet the needs of your child.
