At Ethnocare, innovation starts with people. Our mission has always been to improve everyday life for lower limb amputees, and our latest tool—the Ethnocare Sizing Tool—is designed to make achieving the perfect fit for the Overlay faster, easier, and more precise than ever.
Why Sizing Matters in Prosthetics
The fit of a prosthetic device is critical to its success. Poorly fitted sockets can lead to:
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Skin irritation and pressure sores
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Reduced mobility and comfort
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Difficulty performing everyday activities
How the Ethnocare Sizing Tool Works
The Ethnocare Sizing Tool guides users through a simple, step-by-step process to capture key measurements of the residual limb, including only:
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Circumference at a precise point
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Length from residual limb end to back of the knee or interior of the hip
The tool then recommends the optimal Overlay size for the individual’s limb shape and volume, allowing clinicians and users to:
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Improve socket comfort
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Reduce friction and irritation
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Maximize prosthetic performance
Backed by Research
Appropriate product sizing is a critical factor in comfort, functional performance, and long-term prosthetic use. Poor fit of prosthetic tools like the Overlay is linked to user discomfort, reduced satisfaction, and even prosthesis abandonment unless properly addressed. PubMed+1
Clinical studies have shown that overall outcomes and satisfaction are influenced by how well devices interface with the residual limb and support daily activities. Fit-related factors significantly affect mobility and quality-of-life scores reported in lower-limb amputees. PMC
Research also demonstrates that when prostheses devices are well-matched to the user , they can engage in higher-level activities such as cycling and community participation more effectively. PMC
Our sizing tool translates these clinical insights into a standardized, objective process that helps clinicians and users determine the best Overlay size for each individual, supporting comfort and functional performance from the start.
Prosthetic Socks vs. The Overlay: Real‑World Comparison
Managing residual limb volume variation is a major challenge for people with lower limb amputation. Research shows that residual limbs can change in volume significantly over time, even several percent within a single day, and these fluctuations can affect socket fit, comfort, and mobility. Prosthetic socks are often used to compensate for this change, but they have limitations. The Overlay provides an adaptive solution that responds dynamically to limb volume changes. PMC+1
|
Feature / Benefit |
Prosthetic Socks |
Overlay (Adaptive Solution) |
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Adjusts to limb volume variation |
Add/remove socks throughout the day; users reported changing socks many times per day on average, with total sock ply often increasing by the end of the day. PubMed |
Adapts continually to limb volume changes without removing the socket. |
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Comfort consistency throughout the day |
Socket fit changes lead to discomfort, pressure spots, and potential skin irritation. SpringerLink |
More consistent, it adapts to limb shape and volume for stable fit. |
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Ease of use |
Requires frequent checking and sock layering; inconsistent ply thickness (5+ ply common by end of day). PubMed |
Minimal adjustments needed once properly sized; improves user experience |
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Support during activity |
Can be unstable during high activity levels due to fluid shifts. SpringerLink |
Designed for dynamic use, maintaining fit during movement and reducing need for sock changes. |
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Skin protection & tissue health |
Frequent sock layering may contribute to friction, irritation, or skin issues. SpringerLink |
Adaptive surface reduces pressure points and irritation by maintaining consistent contact. |
Why This Matters for Clinicians
Clinicians play a crucial role in prosthetic success. The Ethnocare Sizing Tool allows prosthetists to:
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Find the right size for his/her patient in less than 2 minutes
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Ensure a better initial fit, reducing the need for adjustments, and follow up appointment
This not only improves patient outcomes but also saves time and resources in clinical settings.
Get Started Today
Take control of your prosthetic fit. Whether you’re a clinician or a user, the Ethnocare Sizing Tool is your guide to a better, more comfortable prosthetic experience.
Start sizing your Overlay now →
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