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Usage of the device
Dowing supports the execution of numerous daily activities like eating, drinking, tooth brushing, typing
or scratching one’s nose. Independence in lifting and manipulating objects and in personal care is
possible again. In general it is desirable for users to use their remaining capacities as much as
possible. The device adds force to the user’s arm when lifting objects in the vertical plane, if well-
adjusted no more force is added than strictly is needed. The principle at work here
is called ‘Assist as
needed’. Application of this principle is both beneficial from a health perspective and for one’s self
esteem, furthermore it is also cost effective. Dowing operates on the basis of compensation of the
weight of the arm. This is called ‘balancing the arm’. The large horizontal movements hardly require
any effort anymore. The construction enables easy and quick reach of the mouth and face and easier
task performance at the workplace. Dowing returns the natural freedom of movement to the user.
Risks and contra-indications
No essential user risks are known while using Dowing. Dowing is an aid which should be used by the
intended users. However there are no known contra-indications for Dowing. To be able to use Dowing
the following warnings must be taken into account.
Warning:
The arm support system cannot be used by the user as a support when
standing up and sitting down. During the evaluation attention is required to
determine if the user is able to sit in a stable position and if one can stand-up
without using a support.
Warning:
Dowing is before all intended to be used by persons challenged by limited
muscle force in their arms and shoulder girdle. Due to diminished use of their
musculoskeletal functions prior to the supply of Dowing and also due to the
limited ability to stabilise and control joints, the risk of initial overburden is
present. The user is at risk of possible overburden of the arm and shoulder, but
the possible risk exists for the whole kinetic chain. The risk of overburden is
considered to be the largest shortly after supply of the device when the user
experiences new freedom of movement of arm and hand. It is advised to
gradually build up deployment of the device in cooperation with a skilled
healthcare professional. In collaboration with Focal the user may choose to
select settings that initially protect joints that are at risk for overburden.
Warning:
Dowing does not have parts that can be modified or repaired by the user or
other persons. Do not modify any part of this equipment without authorization of
the manufacturer. Failure of this can lead to malfunctioning and loss of
warranty
Warning:
For safety reasons, Dowing can only be removed from the locking position
when the user’s arm is correctly positioned in the arm fitting.
