A r t h r o g r y p o s i s - +


define . it

what is amc: AMC or arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is a condition that occurs at birth. Basically one is born with multiple joint contractions ie. the range of motion in a joint is limited. The more common or "classic" characteristics of this condition occur in the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, feet, and knees. Each person born with AMC may be affected in different ways. Some may have one or two joints that might be affected while others may have trouble in every joint. I fall into the second category.

can it occur again: in most cases AMC is not genetic but there is a 30% chance that someone may be born with it because of a certain gene.

the causes: i remember asking myself this question over and over again. there are four causes that limit the joints movement

  • atrophy ie. the muscles don't develop properly
  • there isn't enough room for the fetus to move in the uterus.
  • the malformation of the spinal cord and/or nervous system
  • abnormal development in the tendons, bones, joints, or joint linings.

    • Note that all four causes occur during the nine months of pregnancy, and in some cases amc may not be visible until birth.

    for the future: thankfully those who are born to AMC can look foward to improving their physical state, and this condition is not degenerative. Essentially what you have is what you'll have and can only get better and not worse.

    links: i'm hoping this section will grow as the internet and medical developments become more available. For now the only link I have is for Avenues. All the information found on my site can be found in-depth at Avenues and I strongly recommend it.