Arthrogryposis Center

Very few centers are devoted to treating arthogryposis. By centralizing state-of-the-art techniques, the Arthrogryposis Center at the Center for Children provides an alternative for patients who travel to different locations for treatment. This multi-disciplinary clinic integrates a variety of services from the Hospital for Joint Diseases and the Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine. Through this clinic, each child is evaluated by a team consisting of a pediatrician, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, geneticist, and physical and occupational therapist.

Conditions We Treat

Arthrogryposis does not describe a single diagnosis, but a spectrum of congenital deformities. While more than 150 conditions have been identified with this disorder, common symptoms include of multiple joint contractures, poorly developed and contracted muscles, and limb deformities. Depending on its severity, patients may not have the ability for such common tasks such as walking independently or sitting up.

Treatment Program

The Arthrogryposis Center's treatment philosophy focuses on the individual patient. In order to prevent irreparable deformities, treatment may include:

• A daily physical therapy program
• Surgical procedures
• The Ilizarov external fixato