Pace First With Dynamic Arm
The technology – called Dynamic Arm – takes elbow components to a new level of functionality.
Toby Carlsson has just completed a two-part training programme in Vienna, run by manufacturers Otto Bock to become qualified in the fitting of the new arm.
Toby explained, “The Dynamic Arm is part of an extensive push by manufacturer Otto Bock to take its upper extremity powered systems into the 21st Century. A whole range of components have been further developed and brought together to use the same input principles to control them. This makes them intuitively easier for users to control. Sophisticated electronics also enhance their functions and operation compared to what has previously been available.
Dynamic Arm is an externally-powered elbow for high level amputees. It is a new generation of elbow joints with superb functionality controlled by an ingenious electric powersource with a variable drive system that controls the speed and power of the elbow movement based on the users commands and the loads applied to the prosthesis.
It allows for quick, exact positioning of the hand with minimum effort and can lift loads up to 6kg.
Extremely fast signal transmission along with newly-developed signal processing allow for movement very close to an individual’s natural physiology. Albeit clearly no full substitute for an amputated arm, it is a real breakthrough in upper extremity prosthetics.
The integrated AFB (Automatic Forearm Balance) stores the energy released when the arm is lowered and helps lift it during free swing, allowing the arm to swing quietly and naturally during walking.
As always, any prosthesis is only as good as the user controlling it. This system requires motivation and an investment in time learning how to use it, but for many transhumeral amputees, it is a most extraordinary development and will deliver much improved performance but in a very natural way.”
A number of evaluations of potentially suitable candidates are already underway.