New picture of Sandra

A new picture of Sandra and information has been posted!!

DOB: 2006
Diagnosis: Arthrogryposis

At birth, Sandra’s arms were in abduction, internal rotation with fixed flexion in the wrist joints. Her legs were in abduction – fixed in the coxofemoral joints, flexion of the knee joints and various situations of the legs. The Achilles tendons of both legs were elongated in 2009. She had one other surgery in 2010. She has been under the continued care of an orthopedic doctor.

This description and the picture leads me to believe she has the classic form of arthrogryposis, called amyoplasia, which means "generalized lack of muscle development" It sounds like and looks like her clubfeet have been corrected with casting and/ or surgery (but they may require more treatment once she's home) 

Sandra can sit with support and sit up on her knees independently. She crawls in her own adaptive way. She can stand up with support and move in a walker. She uses her hands like “tongs”, by crossing her wrists. She is able to pick up toys and other objects in this way. She can move all of her fingers simultaneously.

It sounds like her potential for independent ambulation is huge considering that w/ very little treatment she is already knee standing, crawling and stand w/ assistance! The way they describe how she uses her hands is very typical for kids w/ amyoplasia. Splinting, stretching and surgery will likely improve the positioning of her arms enabling her to be more independent. 

Sandra can talk and is described as “very communicative and inquisitive”. She is cognitively normal, and she understands everything that is said to her. She easily makes contact with strangers and is attached to those who care for her. She is the leader in her group.   

Could she be your daughter?

http://reecesrainbow.org/sandra