Friction is often considered the biggest complaint amongst amputees, yet is often completely ignored in medical journals when the topic of skin breakdown is presented.

Despite recent advancements in prosthetic device manufacturing & technology, blisters, pressure sores, and dermatological skin conditions are all-too-often the culprits that prevent amputees from enjoying the freedom and comfort required to maintain careers and participate in activities of everyday living with family and friends.

Officially introduced in the USA at the 2013 American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association’s O&P World Congress, the GlideWear® Prosthetic Liner Patch has quickly drawn the attention of prosthetists and amputees from around the world.  It’s simple application between the users’ prosthetic liner and skin along with the patented fabric’s versatility and durability  make GlideWear a truly unique and ideal solution for skin breakdown.

Abbey Downing, CPO at Hanger Clinic in Connecticut reported just last week, “I just wanted to let you know I am using a GlideWear Patch on the patella’s of 2 of my patients. Both are working really well.  One patient has advanced PVD and a history of severe redness and tenderness on the patella. I tried everything up to and including cutting a hole in his liner over the patella. The GlideWear (Prosthetic Liner Patch) has made a huge difference!!“

Considered a platform technology by its manufacturer, Tamarack Habilitation Technologies (Minneapolis, MN USA), GlideWear® is a 2-ply low friction fabric technology that provides targeted relief and protection from painful rubbing and skin trauma in a variety of medical device and garment applications.

The GlideWear Prosthetic Liner Patch is sold 2 patches per pack and is available in two sizes: small (2.5 in. x 4.75 in.) and large (4.5 in. x 7.5 in.).  The small size is generally appropriate for 60% of applications, while the larger size is desirable when larger limb coverage is needed.

See the GlideWear Prosthetic Liner Patch ad in the Nov./Dec. 2013 issue of the Amputee Coalition inMotion Magazine or visit www.glidewear.com/PLP for product information and purchasing details.