Socket Technology

Modern liner technology provides excellent cushioning, but the impermeable and insulating material can allow a build-up of warmth and moisture.

The Presence of Sweat

Over the course of a day, sweat will start to build up, acting as a lubricant. Over time, the limb will start to move relative to the liner, causing discomfort for the amputee and reduced control.

The additional movement of the residual limb can lead to increased relative movement and pistoning. This results in reduced ground clearance, compensatory gait patterns and increased energy expenditure, as well as creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.

What this means for Amputees

The impact of sweat between the skin and liner includes chafing and skin breakdown resulting in socket discomfort, loss of security and a less symmetrical gait.

There is a greater risk of trips and falls, as well as the inconvenience of having to stop and refit the liner throughout the day.

Current Socket Design

Interface liners with vacuum suspension are widely considered to be state-of-the-art in socket technology. While vacuum systems expel air from between the socket and liner, the liner itself is made of an impermeable material, meaning air and moisture become trapped between skin and liner.

The patented technology of Silcare Breathe works by letting the air and perspiration that are often trapped between the liner and skin to escape through specially designed laser drilled perforations.  

The air and moisture are then expelled from the socket as the wearer walks, resulting in drier skin and a healthier environment for the residual limb. This helps to increase comfort and control and reduce the damaging effects of relative motion on damp tissues that is often encountered with standard prosthetic liners.

Sweat Management

Sweat is a major issue for amputees. Not only do amputees have a greater need to regulate their temperature as they require greater effort to walk, but there is a compromised ability to cool due to reduced body surface area which is compounded by current sockets and liners which act as insulators. Learn more about Blatchford's liner's sweat management capabilities.