Redbridge SERC

Arthrogryposis

Description

The word Arthrogryposis literally means curved joint, implying that it is fixed or stuck in the curved position.

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita put simply means curved joints in several areas of the body at birth.

Contractures are present at birth and in most children there are multiple contractures.

 

Fact sheets

Training / Help

Help and support can be obtained from;

  • Newbridge Outreach
  • Physiotherapy Team
  • Occuptaional therapy Team

Videos

Screenshot for video: Tomcat adapted trikes

Tomcat adapted trikes

Tomcat Trikes in action

Screenshot for video: Arthrogryposis awareness video

Arthrogryposis awareness video

Arthrogryposis Awareness Day is every June 30. Also known as Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, is a rare congenital disorder that is characterized by multiple joint contractures and can include muscle weakness and …

Screenshot for video: Arthrogryposis- medical overview

Arthrogryposis- medical overview

Interview with Dr. Harold van Bosse, orthopedic surgeon with Shriners Hospitals for Children-Philadelphia. This video is part 1 of 3 parts. Part 1: Introduction to Arthrogryposis; Part 2: Philosophy of Care Part 3: Treatment Options …

Learning Aids

Playing card holder

Playing card holder

Available from: Card holder

Make holding cards easy for little hands with our Circular Card Holders. Spring-loaded rotating wheels make card insertion easy. Once loaded with a card stack, rotate the wheel and the cards fan out. Ideal for any card activity.  Also…

Illustrations

Stickman Communication

Stickman Communication

Stickman Communications create brilliantly simple cards to help communicate a variety of conditions/ disabilities. They currently cover; * ASD * Sensory overload * Allergies  * Medical conditions  * Bowel and bladder conditions * Hypermobility and EDS * Migraine * Seizures * POTS /SVT * Visual impairment * Mental Health *…
Full Size image

Source: http://stickmancommunications.co.uk/epages/747384.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/747384/Categories/topics

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the educational implications for students who have Arthrogryposis?

    when supporting a pupil with Arthrogryposis you will need to focus upon;

    • access to the curriculum
    • physical environment - plan classroom to provide greatest access, access around school
    • independence
    • physical therapy
    • positioning
    • specialised equipment to maximise independence
    • care needs sensitively supported.
    • recording difficulties- support by providing access to ICT, scribe, sloped board

    Seek advice from professionals to explore the adaptations that can be made in home and at school.

     

  • What are the observable characteristics of Arthrogryposis?

    Students with arthrogryposis can be characterised by the internal rotation of hands, sloping shoulders, and long, tapering fingers. The position of the feet, hips and knees are variable.

    Some students have two or three joints affected, all other joints are affected including the spine and the jaw.

    Most students are within the normal cognitive range.

     

  • How many children are born with Arthrogryposis each year?

    Arthrogryposis occurs in about 1 in 3,000 births.

    Over 260 babies are born with arthrogryposis in the UK each year.

  • What causes Arthrogryposis?

    There are several reasons why Arthrogryposis develops in the womb;

    • abnormalities of the connective tissue
    • limitation of space /restrictive movement
    • muscles fail to form or function in the womb
    • maternal illness
    • neurological deficit caused by absent or malfunctioning nerves
  • What is the treatment for Arthrogryposis?
    • Early diagnosis enables treatment to start as soon as possible
    • Physiotherapy to develop stretching and use of splints
    • Plaster casts and surgery may be used
    • Use of orthotic splints
    • Promote pupil's own problem solving suggestions

Family Resources

Whizz Kids

Website: 
http://www.whizz-kidz.org.uk/
Description

Whizz-Kidz is a charity aiming to provide disabled children and young customised mobility equipment, training, advice and life skills.

This Charity provides equipment to children that is not available on the NHS. They also run Wheelchair training courses/ Mobility centres in Dagenham and Havering.

Contact a family

Website: 
http://www.cafamily.org.uk/
Description

A UK wide charity providing advice, information and support to parents of all disabled children.