Arthrogryposis (Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita) is a muscle disorder that causes multiple joint contractures at birth. A contracture is a limitation in the range of motion of a joint. It is non-progressive.

In some cases, few joints may be affected and the range of motion may be nearly normal. In the "classic" case of arthrogryposis, hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, feet and knees are affected. In the most severe cases, nearly every body joint may be involved, including the jaw and back. Frequently, the contractures are accompanied by muscle weakness, which further limits movement. Arthrogryposis is relatively rare, occurring in approximately one in 3,000 births. The majority of affected individuals survive but a minority die, usually due to respiratory muscle involvement.

In most cases, arthrogryposis is not a genetic condition and does not occur more than once in a family. In about 30% of the cases, a genetic cause can be identified. The risk of recurrence for these cases varies with the type of genetic disorder.

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