Arthrogryposis, also called arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), involves a variety of non-progressive conditions that are characterized by multiple joint contractures (stiffness) and involves muscle weakness found throughout the body at birth.

This disorder should be considered a symptom complex or a descriptive term rather than a disease and an underlying cause should be sought when possible. The most common type of arthrogryposis is called amyoplasia in which the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, feet and knees are affected. In more severe types, every joint can be affected including the jaw and spine. The name, derived from the Greek, means “curved or hooked joints”.