Amyoplasia: a case report of an old woman

Abstract

Purpose: Little information exists about the long-term outcome of amyoplasia. In this article, a case report of a 93-year old woman is presented including both the development of the physical limitations and coping strategies. Method: The medical records, physical examinations and personal interviews during the last 10 years, autobiographical essays and personal photographs were included. Results: Eleven surgical procedures were performed during childhood and ten during adulthood. Ambulation without aids was possible up to the age of 37 years. Thereafter, the muscular force declined gradually, first in the legs and later in the arms. Musculoskeletal pain decreased during ageing. There was an increasing demand to use technical aids. Seniority brought about several diseases, which complicated the quality of life. The woman stayed 32 years of her life in work. Conclusions: A high age can be achieved with amyoplasia although the disability increases due to a gradual deterioration of muscular force. The personal experiences of the woman suggest that her active and creative attitude towards her disability may have contributed to the quality of her life. This may encourage people with amyoplasia and their care givers.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• There are no data about ageing and life-long prognosis of amyoplasia.

• Severe physical limitations in amyoplasia are compatible with a long and meaningful life.

• Muscular force decreases during adult life. Therefore, a potential risk of overtraining should be considered.

Keywords::

• Ageing
• arthrogryposis multiplex congenita
• prognosis
• follow-up
• quality of life
• muscle force
• pain
• technical aids

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank the woman not only for her active participation in publishing this case report but also for her personal involvement in developing the user-orientated services of TRS for many years. Written informed consent was obtained from the woman for publication of this case report. The content of the text and the figures were presented to her, and she agreed with the present form. Figures 1a and 2f are personal photographs from the woman.

Declaration of Interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest.