Low-Down on Liners
Protecting the residual limb and providing comfort, liners are available in a range of designs to suit different limb conditions and activity levels.
Thrive readers were asked “How do you like your liner?” While the consensus was quite good, there were some consumer questions around fashion, fit and function. So, we looked to liner manufacturers for answers.
Q. Function. Is there such a thing as a breathable liner?
A. Breathable technology for drier skin and socket security has been introduced which works by letting air and perspiration that are often trapped between the liner and skin to escape. Heat management technology is being used to pull heat away from your limb throughout the day and during high activity.
Q. Fit. Are they all made the same?
A. Not all liners are designed the same. Liner profiles represent the shape of the residual limb more closely inside of the liner, whereas the outside of the liner looks tubular in shape. Different manufacturers have differing thicknesses. Some companies also pre-flex their liners and suspension sleeves.
Q. Stink. What can I do to prevent odour?
A. Unless a liner has specific properties to eliminate or control odour, the best rule of thumb is to make sure liners are being cleaned daily and disinfected weekly. At the end of each day, wash the liner with water and a body soap that does not irritate the skin. Allow the liner to dry on a drying stand overnight. Once a week, disinfect the liner by wiping the gel with ethyl or isopropyl alcohol and allow the liner to dry overnight. It’s also important to take care of your skin in this area too. Wash daily with a simple, unperfumed soap (ideally pH balanced) and rinse thoroughly to remove any soapy residue before drying. Use a lotion for dry skin and be sure that any damaged skin is properly cared for.
Q. Function. Is there such a thing as a breathable liner?
A. Breathable technology for drier skin and socket security has been introduced which works by letting air and perspiration that are often trapped between the liner and skin to escape. Heat management technology is being used to pull heat away from your limb throughout the day and during high activity.
Q. Fit. Are they all made the same?
A. Not all liners are designed the same. Liner profiles represent the shape of the residual limb more closely inside of the liner, whereas the outside of the liner looks tubular in shape. Different manufacturers have differing thicknesses. Some companies also pre-flex their liners and suspension sleeves.
Q. Stink. What can I do to prevent odour?
A. Unless a liner has specific properties to eliminate or control odour, the best rule of thumb is to make sure liners are being cleaned daily and disinfected weekly. At the end of each day, wash the liner with water and a body soap that does not irritate the skin. Allow the liner to dry on a drying stand overnight. Once a week, disinfect the liner by wiping the gel with ethyl or isopropyl alcohol and allow the liner to dry overnight. It’s also important to take care of your skin in this area too. Wash daily with a simple, unperfumed soap (ideally pH balanced) and rinse thoroughly to remove any soapy residue before drying. Use a lotion for dry skin and be sure that any damaged skin is properly cared for.
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