WHEREAS, The specific symptoms of arthrogryposis and their
severity can vary dramatically from one child to another, with
some children being mildly affected while others are seriously
affected; and
WHEREAS, The most common type of arthrogryposis is called
amyoplasia, in which the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips,
feet and knees are affected and, in more severe types, every
joint can be affected, including the jaw and spine; and
WHEREAS, Arthrogryposis results from fetal akinesia, which is
characterized by a lack of fetal movement; and
WHEREAS, There is no cure for arthrogryposis, only treatment
to reduce the severity of the joint contractures and increase
muscle strength to maximize the function level of the
individual; and
WHEREAS, Treatment often includes stretching the joints
multiple times per day, serial casting, physical, occupational
and speech therapy, splinting, bracing, tendon release and
lengthening, surgical bone cutting, called ostcotomy, and
external fixators; and
WHEREAS, Arthrogryposis may be caused by genetic and
environmental factors, although the exact causes of
arthrogryposis are unknown; and
WHEREAS, More research needs to be done to find the causes of
arthrogryposis, to map the genes in genetic types and long-term
outcome studies of common surgical procedures performed;
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize June 30, 2017, as
"Arthrogryposis Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania.
20170SR0164PN1069 - 2 -
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