Prosthetic Care Instructions

Taking proper care of your prosthesis helps keep it clean, comfortable and functioning well, while helping to maximise the longevity of your prosthetic components.

Regular prosthetic care also helps protect your residual limb and skin, reduce the build-up of sweat and odour, and identify potential problems before they become more serious.

THE LINER

Your prosthetic liner sits directly against your residual limb and should be cleaned daily to help maintain good hygiene and reduce the build-up of sweat, oils and bacteria.

Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent to gently wipe the liner clean. Dry it thoroughly with a clean towel and leave it to air-dry completely overnight before using it again.

DO:

Clean your prosthetic liner every day.
Handle the liner gently to avoid stretching or damaging it.
Allow the liner to dry completely before wearing it.
Check regularly for cracks, tears or other signs of wear.

DO NOT:

Leave your liner turned inside out for extended periods.
Put your liner in a washing machine unless specifically approved by the manufacturer.
Put your liner in a clothes dryer unless specifically approved by the manufacturer.
Use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your liner.

If your liner develops persistent odour, visible damage or changes in performance, speak to your prosthetist about whether it needs to be replaced.

THE SOCKET

Trans-Tibial Users (Below the Knee): Your prosthetic socket should generally be cleaned weekly, or more frequently if recommended by your prosthetist. Simply wipe the socket with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then dry it thoroughly before putting your prosthesis back on.

Shuttle locks and expulsion valves should function correctly and maintain reliable suspension. If you notice difficulty locking or releasing your liner, changes in suspension, leaking or other problems with your lock or valve, speak to your prosthetist about servicing. Your prosthetist can also advise you on appropriate service intervals.

Trans-Femoral Users (Above the Knee): Your prosthetic socket should generally be cleaned daily. Wipe the socket with a damp cloth and mild detergent, making sure you dry it thoroughly before putting your prosthesis back on.

Isopropyl wipes may be suitable for cleaning and disinfecting some socket surfaces. Follow the recommendations for your particular socket and components.

It is generally not necessary to use an antiseptic to clean your prosthesis. DO NOT use Dettol or other solvents, harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning products on your socket or liner unless specifically recommended by your prosthetist or the manufacturer.

PROSTHETIC COMPONENTS

Most prosthetic components only need to be wiped clean using a damp cloth.

Keep your prosthetic components free from dirt, dust and debris, and avoid exposing components to water unless they are specifically designed to be waterproof.

If your prosthetic foot gets sand, dirt or other debris inside it, make an appointment with your prosthetist to have it cleaned and serviced. In some cases, your prosthetist may be able to provide you with a tool and training to safely carry out basic cleaning yourself.

DO NOT dismantle, modify or repair prosthetic components

Contact your prosthetist if you notice unusual noises, visible damage, loose components or a change in the way your prosthesis feels or functions.

CLEANING STUMP SOCKS

Prosthetic stump socks, also known as prosthetic socks, have two main purposes:

To protect the residual limb from excessive rubbing and friction against the socket.
To help maintain a comfortable prosthetic fit as the residual limb changes in volume throughout the day.

You may find that you wear only one sock in the morning but need to add a second sock as the day progresses. Changes in residual-limb volume throughout the day are common, and adjusting sock thickness or the number of socks can help maintain a comfortable fit when advised by your prosthetist.

It is very important to keep your prosthetic socks clean and hygienic. They should be changed and cleaned daily.

DO’s and DON’Ts for Cleaning Prosthetic Stump Socks:

Only use an approved wool detergent to wash your prosthetic stump socks, preferably by hand.
Use cool or warm water according to the sock manufacturer’s instructions.
Using hot water may cause your prosthetic socks to shrink.
Gently squeeze the suds through the socks and rinse thoroughly with clear, warm water.
Avoid twisting, stretching or rubbing wet socks, as this may cause them to lose their shape.
Roll wet socks in a clean towel to gently blot out excess water.
Prosthetic socks can generally be hung to dry, unless the manufacturer’s instructions recommend otherwise.
DO NOT use a clothes dryer unless the manufacturer specifically states that the socks are dryer-safe.
Replace socks when they become stretched, misshapen, excessively worn or damaged.

LOOK AFTER YOUR RESIDUAL LIMB

Good prosthetic care also includes looking after the skin of your residual limb. Check your skin every day, particularly after removing your prosthesis.

Look for redness, blisters, pressure areas, rubbing, broken skin, sores, swelling or areas of persistent tenderness.

If redness does not settle after removing your prosthesis, or you develop broken skin, a sore or persistent pain, speak to your prosthetist or healthcare professional.

Keep your residual limb clean and dry before applying your liner and prosthesis. If you cannot easily see all areas of your residual limb, use a mirror or ask someone you trust to help.

WHEN TO CONTACT YOUR PROSTHETIST

Speak to your prosthetist if you notice any significant or persistent change in your prosthesis, fit or comfort.

This includes:

Persistent pain or discomfort.
New rubbing, pressure areas, blisters or skin breakdown.
Your socket feels unusually tight or loose.
You suddenly need significantly more or fewer prosthetic socks.
Your prosthesis rotates, moves or feels unstable.
Changes in suspension.
Difficulty using a shuttle lock, expulsion valve or other suspension component.
Unusual noises or visible damage to prosthetic components.
Changes in your walking pattern or the way your prosthesis feels.
Repeated trips, falls or near-falls.

Do not ignore persistent pain or skin problems. Your prosthetist can assess your socket fit, alignment, suspension and components and determine whether an adjustment, repair or service is required.

Important: Prosthetic liners, sockets, feet, knees and other components can have specific care and maintenance requirements. Always follow the instructions provided by your prosthetist and the manufacturer of your particular components.

Book an appointment