What is a prosthetic liner?

• A liner is worn as an interface between your limb and the prosthetic socket. Liners can increase comfort in a prosthesis dramatically.
• A liner is typically made out of a gel or foam, they may be covered or uncovered and there are multiple foam and gel types, sizes or thicknesses.

How do I put on my gel liner?

• Turn your liner inside out completely
• Place the end of the liner on the end of the limb and roll it up the leg, remembering to not let air get trapped in the liner.
• Below knee – Liner will pass over knee to mid-thigh, it should be cut to length.
• Above knee – Liner will stop in the groin area, it should be cut to length.
• If pin suspension is used, remember to align the pin properly as you roll up the liner.

How often do I wear my liner?

• There are guidelines to breaking in a new liner, your prosthetist will determine what is appropriate for you.
• If any skin irritation occurs after wearing the liner, this is a potential problem; please immediately discontinue the use of your liner and call your prosthetist.
• Below is a good general and conservative guideline:

1. On the first day, wear your liner for one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 2.
2. On the second day, wear your liner for two hours in the morning and two hours in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 3.
3. On the third day, wear your liner for three hours in the morning and three hours in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 4.
4. On the fourth day, wear your liner for four hours in the morning and four hours in the evening. If no skin irritation occurs, continue to step 5.
5. On the fifth day, wear your liner all day.

• Please contact your prosthetist to schedule an appointment for an adjustment if any skin irritation, blistering or redness occurs; that does not disappear within 15minutes of taking off the liner.
• If this occurs, please discontinue the use of the liner until seen by your Prosthetist.

How do I clean and maintain my liner?

• You will was your liner inside out, with the use of a mild, non-allergenic, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Gently blot the liner dry with a towel, turn it right side out again, and hang on a drying stand overnight.
• If your liner is fabric covered, be careful not to soak the fabric as this can weaken the integrity of the liner.
• Please be sure to check your liner for signs of damage, inside and out. If you find any damage, make an appointment with your prosthetist.
• Please make sure your liner is clean and dry and there are no debris stuck to the inside of the liner when you roll it on your leg.
• Be careful where you store your liner as cold temperatures will make it cold when you put it on and hot temperatures can melt and deform your liner.
• When putting your liner on, make sure it is completely inverted and covers the end of your limb, any air pockets can lead to unintended suction between your limb and liner, which will lead to water blister formation.