Total Surface Bearing (TSB)
Even pressure distribution around the limb—common with gel‑liner systems and elevated vacuum.
Socket Designs We Fabricate
Each socket is custom to your anatomy, activity, and goals. Materials include flexible inner sockets, laminated carbon fiber, and thermoplastics.
Patellar Tendon Bearing (PTB)
Designated load‑bearing areas with relief for sensitive regions—time‑tested for transtibial users.
Ischial Containment (IC)
Transfemoral brim that stabilizes the femur and helps control rotation for improved gait.
Sub‑Ischial & Hybrid Designs
Lower brim options and flexible inner sockets for comfort while preserving control—often with vacuum or suction.
Most users need significant adjustments in the first year due to limb‑volume changes. Insurance guidelines vary, but many sockets are replaced every 1–5 years or when fit or function changes.
Direct Socket System — Same‑Day Legs
Our Direct Socket System enables eligible patients to be cast, fabricated, and fit with their prosthesis in a single day. Using advanced materials and on‑site lamination, clinicians form the socket directly on the patient’s limb—streamlining the process and improving precision.
This same‑day approach eliminates weeks of waiting, so many patients can walk out the same day with a comfortable, secure prosthesis. It’s ideal for jump‑starting rehabilitation sooner, reducing travel, and reaching independence faster.
The Direct Socket System blends innovation and practicality—improving comfort, alignment, and efficiency while maintaining the high‑quality outcomes you expect from custom fabrication.
Suspension Options
We help you compare the feel, maintenance, and donning methods so you can choose confidently.
Suction
Air is expelled during donning to create a gentle vacuum seal—often with a one‑way valve. Great for stable limb volume.
- Pro: Secure hold without distal traction
- Pro: Low profile under clothes
- Consider: Requires close fit and technique
Elevated Vacuum
Mechanical or powered pumps maintain sub‑atmospheric pressure, improving contact and volume stability.
- Pro: Excellent suspension & volume management
- Consider: More parts/maintenance
Pin‑Lock (Shuttle Lock)
A gel liner with a distal pin clicks into a mechanical lock for simple, audible security.
- Pro: Fast, intuitive donning
- Consider: Can create distal traction if volume changes
Lanyard
A strap threads through the socket and secures externally—great for limited hand strength or longer limbs.
- Pro: One‑hand friendly and adjustable
- Consider: Slightly more bulk at the front of the socket
Sleeve Suspension
An external sleeve creates a seal above the socket rim—often used as primary or backup suspension.
- Pro: Adds quiet security
- Consider: Heat/perspiration for some users
Anatomical/Belt
Belts, pelvic bands, or joint straps when limb shapes are challenging, during post‑op phases, or as backup.
- Pro: Works when other options are limited
- Consider: Bulkier under clothing
| Suspension | Best For | Donning | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suction | Stable limb volume, quiet feel | Moderate | Valve checks, liner care |
| Elevated Vacuum | High activity, volume management | Moderate | Pump servicing, seals |
| Pin‑Lock | Simplicity & audible security | Easy | Lock upkeep, liner hygiene |
| Lanyard | Limited hand strength, alignment ease | Easy | Strap wear, Velcro check |
| Sleeve | Supplement seal/security | Easy | Sleeve replacement over time |
Slingshot Socket by Martin Bionics
The Slingshot Socket by Martin Bionics is a lightweight, flexible design that offers exceptional comfort and freedom of motion for upper or lower limb users. Its unique dynamic frame provides gentle support while maintaining natural movement and reducing pressure points.
FAQs
What is a prosthetic socket?
The custom‑fabricated interface that connects your residual limb to your prosthesis. It distributes pressure evenly, protects skin and soft tissues, and enables comfortable control.
How do suspension systems work?
Suspension keeps the prosthesis attached during sitting, standing, and walking—using options like suction/elevated vacuum, pin‑lock liners, sleeves, belts, and anatomical contouring.
Which suspension is best for me?
The right choice depends on limb shape, skin condition, activity level (K‑level), and your preferences. We trial options so you can feel the difference before finalizing.
How often will my socket need to be replaced?
Insurance guidelines vary, but many sockets are replaced every 1–5 years or when fit or function changes—earlier adjustments are common in the first year due to limb‑volume changes.