There is a wide range of prosthetic liners to choose from. Learn more about the types of prosthetic liners available so that you have a better understanding of which liner could be right for you.

There is a world of prosthetic liners to choose from. Learn more about the types of prosthetic liners so you have an idea of which liner might be right for you.

All about different types of prosthetic liners

All about different types of prosthetic liners | Össur Prosthetics

Everything you need to know about different types of prosthetic liners

A prosthetic liner is the protective interface that sits between the skin of your residual limb and the inner socket wall of your prosthetic leg. 

The silicone liners we see today were invented by our founder, Össur Kristinsson. Like many of the world’s great inventions, the silicone liner was created out of necessity. Kristinsson, an amputee himself, wasn’t satisfied with the available solutions for him and his patients. So in the 1980s, he created the Iceross, the world’s first silicone liner. 

Since then, we have continued to innovate and create different types of liners, so now there is a wide range of liners to choose from. Here we will look at what’s on offer so you have an idea of which liner could be right for you.

Even though there are many different types of liners, they all share the same goal – to support you to live your life by providing protection, suspension, and pressure distribution, for your skin to stay healthy. A good liner should support you as you walk so that the pressure on your residual limb is evenly distributed to leave you comfortable and free to go about your day.

Broadly speaking, liners can be divided into two types – below knee prosthetic liners for transtibial (TT) amputations, and above knee prosthetic liners for transfemoral (TF) amputations.

Within these two different types of liners, there are three suspension options.  

Locking: as it sounds, this kind of liner is attached firmly with a pin and a lock.

Cushion + sleeve: this is an option without a pin that is used with a sleeve. The sleeve combines with the cushion liner to provide vacuum suspension – an airtight seal between your residual limb and your prosthetic socket.

Seal-In: airtight, vacuum suspension, sealed for improved rotational control.

Two different types of liners, and each provides three different ways they attach to the prosthetic device, to provide protection, comfort, and suspension.

If you have had a below-the-knee amputation, you can be fitted with a TT locking, cushion and sleeve, or a Seal-In liner. 

Above-the-knee amputations are fitted with TF Seal-In or locking liners. 

Within these categories, you have a range of options – different kinds of locks, valves, and seals. Each is designed to meet the many and varied needs that arise for each individual. If you are fitted with a liner, it will take into account your specific amputation, your age, your general health, and the activities you want to do during the day. Everyone is unique, and so are our liners.

Different companies use various materials to produce liners. Most liners are made of Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), Polyurethane (TPU/PUR), Silicone, or a hybrid mixture of these materials. 

TPE liners, also known as prosthetic gel liners, are well-known for their cushioning and pressure distribution properties. 

TPU prosthetic liners are recognised for protecting the sensitive residual limb against friction and pressure points. 

Silicone prosthetic liners are valued for their protective qualities, suspension capabilities, various suspension methods, and positive functional outcomes.

Taking care of your liner will keep you feeling fresh and comfortable and will extend the life of your liner. And the good news is that it is easy. 

Wash it in warm water with a mild soap (if it has a fragrance, don’t use it)

Rinse thoroughly with warm water. You don’t want any soap residue left on the liner as it may irritate your skin when you next put it on.

Dry the liner with a towel and turn the liner back the right way around so it keeps its shape, then leave it to dry either lying flat or on a stand. 

Taking care of your skin is also important. Be sure to wash it daily with a gentle soap and apply a mild moisturising cream to keep your residual limb hydrated and happy.

Liner care: How to take care of your liner

We hope this has given you a better understanding of the different types of liners and suspension options that are available to you. 

We are continually innovating to design the best liner to fit your unique needs by giving you as many options and as much stability, comfort, and freedom as we possibly can.

Discover the comfort and performance of Össur Iceross silicone liners and Iceform gel liners, plus more options to choose from.

Everything you need to know about different types of prosthetic liners

There is a wide range of prosthetic liners to choose from. Learn more about the types of prosthetic liners available so that you have a better understanding of which liner could be right for you.

What exactly is a prosthetic liner?

Why do I wear a liner?

Main categories of liners

Suspension options

Liner materials

Liner care: How to take care of your liner

Live your best life

Silicone & Gel Liners