What is arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and what are the causes of Liz Carr’s condition?
LIZ CARR, 49, is a British actress, comedian and international disability rights activist who has been in a wheelchair since the age of seven due to a medical condition.
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, often referred to as AMC, is an umbrella term that covers over 300 conditions, the rare condition relates to curved joints which occur in the body at birth.
Who is Liz Carr?
Liz Carr is most often recognised from Silent Witness, a show she acted in for eight years.
She is an international disability rights activist and has often spoken about her condition.
What is arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and what are the symptoms?
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a rare disease in newborns resulting in decreased flexibility of the joints.
Symptoms differ from person to person, but can include lack of movement in the below:
- Shoulders
- Elbows
- Wrists
- Hands
- Hips
- Knees
- Feet
The lack of movement does not get worse over time - but treatment is needed to prevent further impairments of the joints.
There is no single cause for AMC, one known factor is “fetal akinesia” - which is decreased fetal movement in utero.
Amyoplasia, the most common form of the condition, occurs in 1 in every 10,000 live births.
While the condition is not classed as genetic, the parents of a baby suffering from amyoplasia are advised to seek medical advice as they approach childhood
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How is the condition treated?
When it comes to treatment of AMC, there are various options, depending on the severity of the condition, including:
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
- Tendon transfers
- Occupational therapy
- Splints and casts