How can problems in the spinal cord, nerves, muscles, or joints contribute to arthrogryposis?

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is a condition characterized by multiple congenital joint contractures. While extrinsic factors like uterine pressure can contribute to these deformities, the majority of cases arise from intrinsic biological issues.12

Problems in the spinal cord, nerves, or muscles contribute to the condition primarily by causing muscle weakness. When these systems fail to function properly during fetal development, the resulting lack of muscle strength prevents normal joint movement, leading to the fixation and contraction of joints at birth. Additionally, arthrogryposis can result from the abnormal formation of the joints themselves.12

It is important to distinguish this from neurogenic arthropathy (Charcot joint), which is a separate, degenerative condition caused by the loss of sensory mechanisms and joint position sense due to nerve damage. Unlike the developmental muscle weakness seen in arthrogryposis, neurogenic arthropathy involves the rapid destruction of stress-bearing joints because the body cannot perceive or limit excessive strain.34