Sockets, Liners & Accessories

The socket is the portion of your prosthesis that wraps around your residual limb. The socket should always fit properly, empowering you to comfortably and confidently utilize your prosthesis. A well-fitting socket has many benefits, such as providing comfort, stability, and an appropriate distribution of weight bearing forces.

There are different socket designs for each amputation level, each tailored to the individual presentation of the user and taking into account how and where load bearing forces are distributed through your limb.

Liners

Liners are placed directly over the skin, serving as a barrier for the residual limb and prosthetic socket.
The most common types of liners include:
1. Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), or Gel Liners– The softest and most flexible types of liners, and are ideal for people with sensitive skin as well as new amputees
2. Silicone Liners– Less flexible, but more durable, and are ideal for more active individuals who are not allergic to silicone
3. Urethane Liners– The stiffest and least flexible, but offer a lot of durability and help distribute pressure most evenly. They are ideal for high-activity prosthetic users and pair well with active vacuum sockets

Suspension Options

In addition to variations in socket shape and design, there are variations in suspension, or how the socket is attached to your limb. Your prosthetist will work with you to determine the best design for you based on your individual needs and the location, shape, and condition of your residual limb.
1. Locking Liner Suspension– A pin attached to the end of your liner locks your prosthesis in place using a shuttle lock positioned in the bottom of the socket. This lock mechanism must be released to remove the limb from the socket.
2. Suction Suspension– A silicone sleeve worn over the outside of the prosthesis also rolls over your knee and lower thigh to create an airtight seal between the prosthesis and your limb. A one way valve allows air to be expelled from the system, creating suction inside the socket and holding it firmly to the residual limb.
3. Active Vacuum Sockets– Similar to suction suspension, but with the addition of a vacuum pump within the socket that actively expels air from the system, creating an even stronger adherence to the residual limb by maintaining the vacuum effect.