Dynamic arm supports: overview and categorization of dynamic arm supports for people with decreased arm function

In the 1940s the wish for independent feeding in polio survivors has led to the development of the first dynamic arm supports. By now polio is eradicated, but persons with difficulty to perform activities of daily living due to a limited arm function still exist. Many devices aiming to support these persons have been developed in the past 70 years. A review making an inventory of devices developed was performed in scientific literature databases, conference proceedings, assistive technology databases and by consultation of experts. A total of 97 devices were found, and three main categories were recognized: the non-actuated devices (N=39), the passively-actuated devices (N=24) and the actively-actuated devices (N=34). Of the 97 devices encountered 43 devices were commercially available in October 2012, the lowest percentage found in the actively-actuated devices. This means that the more advanced systems are not (yet) available for users. The continuous efforts in developing new devices suggest there is potential for actively activated arm supports. Developing these into products ready for the market would be a first step in fulfilling this potential.