Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists at Shriners Children's help kids be as independent as possible, focusing on what is important to them and what they love to do in their daily lives.
Arthrogryposis Care
We specialize in treating rare conditions like arthrogryposis with a team approach.
Arthrogryposis is a number of rare muscle disorders that can cause stiff joints and abnormal muscle development in children. It occurs in about 1 in every 3,000 children. The name comes from the Greek word meaning “curved joint." Children with arthrogryposis are born with a limited range of motion in any of all of the following:
- Wrists
- Hands
- Elbows
- Shoulders
- Hips
- Knees
- Ankles
In some cases, motion is so limited that the joint is actually fixed, meaning there is no range of motion at all. There is no known cure for arthrogryposis, and the exact cause of arthrogryposis is unknown.
Shriners Children's experienced physicians have treated thousands of children with arthrogryposis. We bring a proven, innovative, team approach to treatment that is focused on one main goal: giving children the best quality of life so they can achieve their goals.
Your physician will confirm a diagnosis of arthrogryposis using blood test, X-rays or muscle biopsies. Our advanced motion analysis center technicians can help determine the correct course for care. Treatment options may include splinting, casting, physical therapy and, in some circumstances, surgery.
Our Family-Centered Care
Our philosophy is to consider all of the options for your child. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that is the best fit for your child’s age, the severity of their condition and the activities they love.
A diagnosis of arthrogryposis can be stressful for the entire family. Those stressors can include fears about your child's future and insecurity about making the right decisions. Be reassured that if your child is diagnosed with arthrogryposis, you'll have a Shriners Children's care team to guide you. Your child’s surgeons, physical and occupational therapists, and other care providers understand the concerns of children and parents navigating this journey.
We’ve seen children with arthrogryposis successfully progress through childhood, as they become active preschoolers, elementary school gymnasts, and teens confidently socializing with friends and succeeding in life.
Specific treatments and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.
If you make it to Shriners Children's, you can take a deep breath. They're going to take care of you in every way possible.
Locations for arthrogryposis care
View All Related Locations
Shriners Children's provides specialty health care to children around the world. We offer a comprehensive range of treatments, services and support to improve the quality of our patients’ lives and help them reach their full potential.
Advance Motion Technology Helps Find the Best Options
The Shriners Children's motion analysis centers (MAC) use advanced motion capture cameras to analyze the movements of the children as they walk, reach, bend and twist. These high-tech studies help physicians and therapists determine if a child will benefit from surgery, rehabilitation or prosthetics and orthotics (POPS).
innovative treatments
View All Related Treatments
Splinting
Customized splinting is a common treatment at Shriners Children's for a variety of orthopedic conditions and injuries. From hands to arms to feet, our specialists will create the best splint to meet your child's needs.
Related From Shriners Children's
Next Steps
Request an Appointment
Families and caregivers seeking treatment should start by contacting us for an appointment.
Log in to the Patient Portal
Parents and guardians of existing patients can email, request records, schedule appointments and more.
Refer a Patient
Physicians and healthcare providers can request appointments, start transfers or contact us with questions.