A transtibial suspension sleeve is a flexible cover worn over a prosthetic socket that extends onto the thigh, creating an airtight seal to securely hold the prosthesis in place and reduce movement (pistoning). It functions as a simple, reliable, and inexpensive suspension system, especially for below-knee amputees.
Key Features and Materials
- Materials: Sleeves are typically made from elastic, durable materials such as neoprene, silicone, or copolymer gel (TPE). They are often covered with a textile or fabric (like spandex/nylon) to enhance durability and facilitate easier donning and doffing.
- Design: They are designed for a snug fit over the socket and the skin of the thigh, forming a reliable, airtight seal that prevents air ingress.
- Anatomical Shaping: Many modern sleeves, such as the
Ottobock ProFlex Plus sealing sleeve
or
Össur Iceross Sleeve with Wave technology, feature anatomical shaping, pre-flexion, and/or horizontal “waves” over the knee joint to allow for a comfortable range of motion and prevent bunching or abrasion behind the knee.
- Skin Protection: Some sleeves, like the
, are lined with medical-grade mineral oil gel to moisturize and condition the skin, minimizing friction, abrasion, and pressure on the residual limb.
- Latex-free: Most modern sleeves are latex-free and hypoallergenic to avoid skin irritation.
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