What is a suspension sleeve?

A suspension sleeve is a sleeve that is attached to the prosthesis and rolls onto the user’s thigh, creating a seal and holding the prosthesis on the limb. The sleeve may be made of neoprene, gel, or various fabrics. In this case, vacuum along with the suspension sleeve holds the prosthesis on.

What is a knee suspension?

A suspension sleeve fits over the socket and up onto the thigh. They are used to seal air into the socket to adhere the device to the limb. This tightness greatly reduces the amount of excess movement while still allowing the knee to have some freedom and mobility.

What type of suspension devices is appropriate for a below knee prosthesis?

Suspension Systems

• Lanyard.
• Self Suspending Socket.
• External Sleeve.
• Pin and Lock.
• Suction without a liner.
• Suction with a liner.
• Vacuum-Assisted Suspension.
• Osseointegration.

What does the suspension system of a prosthetic do?

Your suspension system determines the level of proprioception you can have with your prosthesis. The suspension system that gives you the most secure connection between the socket and your limb offers the highest level of proprioception. That awareness translates to performance and confidence.

What is the best prosthetic knee?

The Genium X3 is the world’s most technologically advanced microprocessor knee, offering above-knee amputees the most natural gait possible. It is waterproof, offers new modes never before available and is virtually impenetrable by dust or dirt.

How much does a below the knee prosthetic leg cost?

If you want a basic, below-the-knee prosthetic, the average cost is around $3,000 to $10,000. A more flexible, below-the-knee prosthetic costs a little bit more, while one with special hydraulic and mechanical assistance ranges between $20,000 and $40,000. The computerized leg is the priciest option.

Do amputees wear socks?

Many amputees wear prosthetic socks over the residual limb inside the socket of the prosthesis. Prosthetic socks are available in a variety of materials and thickness.

A suspension sleeve is a sleeve that is attached to the prosthesis and rolls onto the user’s thigh, creating a seal and holding the prosthesis on the limb. The sleeve may be made of neoprene, gel, or various fabrics. A suspension sleeve can be used as a primary suspension method or as secondary suspension with another prosthetic socket design.

What is a suspension sleeve for a below knee prosthesis?

In order to wear a below knee prosthesis, a method of suspension must be used to keep the prosthesis on the user’s limb, regardless of the socket design. A suspension sleeve is a sleeve that is attached to the prosthesis and rolls onto the user’s thigh, creating a seal and holding the prosthesis on the limb.

How far should the suspension sleeve touch the skin?

It is important that the top part of the suspension sleeve is in contact with 2-3 inches of skin of the thigh. It is important that it is above the prosthetic socks and touching skin in order to maintain good suspension.

What is the lifespan of the sleeve on a prosthesis?

The lifespan of the sleeve varies depending on the patient’s activity level and type of suspension sleeve. Holes in the sleeve will decrease the ability of the sleeve to suspend. Do not leave the sleeve rolled down over the prosthesis overnight, because this can stretch out the sleeve.