Shrinkers - Below Knee

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What is the purpose of using a shrinker?
  • Shrinkers provide graduated compression on the amputated limb to reduce the amount of fluid or edema in the limb after amputation surgery.
  • Shrinkers also help shape the limb for an ideal prosthetic fitting.
  • Shrinkers may be used to maintain limb volume and shape throughout an amputees’life.
How do I put on my shrinker?

Compressogrip®Elastic  Shrinker

  1. Find the middle of the shrinker and place plastic ring there.
  2. Pull one end of the shrinker up over the knee to the middle of the thigh; adjust the ring position as needed to ensure the shrinker reaches mid-thigh.
  3. Slide plastic ring to the end of the limb if it is not already there.
  4. Pull the rest of the shrinker over the limb until it reaches the other end, at high thigh/ groin area.
  5. The shrinker will fit very snug, but should not be painful with prolonged use.
  6. Ensure there are NO WRINKLES in the shrinker, as these can lead to problems.

Juzo® Dynamic Shrinker

  1. With both hands gather and stretch the shrinker, like a sock; all the way to the seam on the bottom.
  2. Place shrinker on the end of the amputated limb and gently pull the shrinker up the limb, over the knee until the mid-thigh area.
  3. Ensure the silicone beaded ring is resting against the skin to hold the shrinker onto your limb.
  4. The shrinker will fit very snug, but should not be painful with prolonged use.
  5. Ensure there are NO WRINKLES in the shrinker, as these can lead to problems.
How often should I wear my shrinker?
  • You can wear your shrinker any time you are not wearing your liner or prosthesis.
  • It is especially important to wear your shrinker at night when fluid tends to move back into your limb as your body is inactive.
How do I clean and maintain my shrinker?
  • You can wash your shrinker with a fragrance free mild detergent and let it air dry.
  • It is recommended to have at least two shrinkers so you can wear one while the other one is being cleaned. However, you may have to pay out of pocket for one depending on your insurance coverage.

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