What does a silicone waterproof cover do for a below-knee prosthesis?
A below-knee prosthesis contains metal parts, so frequent contact with water can cause rust or corrosion. Silobionic’s silicone waterproof cover wraps the prosthesis to protect it from water and dirt, and is matched to your other leg — skin tone, toenails, even leg hair — with the aim of looking natural even in shorts.
Why a prosthesis needs a case, too
A below-knee prosthesis has metal connectors joining the socket to the foot. Repeated rain or splashes can lead to rust or corrosion in these parts, shortening the life of the prosthesis. Just as you would put a case and screen protector on a new phone, a cover that protects the outside helps a prosthesis you want to keep for years.
What is a silicone waterproof cover?
Silobionic’s prosthetic cover is not an off-the-shelf sleeve. It is custom-made in silicone to fit your prosthesis and your leg.
| What | How |
|---|---|
| Protection | Silicone wraps the prosthesis, reducing direct contact between water or dirt and its parts |
| Shape | The calf and foot are shaped to match your other leg |
| Skin tone | We measure your skin tone and mix the colour to match it |
| Detail | Toenails are made, and leg hair can be added if you wish, so it sits well beside your other leg |
| Care | Silicone copes well with water and heat, so it can be washed if it gets dirty |
What to tell us before we make your cover
A cover adds a layer over your prosthesis, so the more we know about your routine, the better it can suit you. At your consultation, tell us about the shoes you usually wear, how long your trousers or shorts are, how often you are out in rain or around water, and how you put your prosthesis on and take it off. The foot component and socket shape of your current prosthesis also affect the cover’s thickness and shape.
A cover finished with leg hair
For one customer with quite hairy legs, we set hair into the cover as well, so the difference would be less noticeable when both legs are side by side. We aimed for a natural look from the front and the side; results vary from person to person.
What changes in daily life?
- Clothing — with the metal parts hidden, wearing shorts on a hot day feels like less of a decision.
- Water — it helps protect the parts in the rain or around splashes. If you are thinking about swimming or water play, tell us first: how much water the components and socket can take differs between products.
- Hygiene — if it gets dirty, the cover can be washed and kept clean.
How is it made?
- Consultation and moulding — we look at your current prosthesis and leg, measure your skin tone and take moulds for details such as toenails.
- Fitting and getting used to it — the finished cover goes on your prosthesis and you walk in it so we can check comfort and appearance.
The number of visits and the time needed depend on your prosthesis and the cover’s specification, so we confirm them during your consultation. If it tears or loosens with use, contact us for after-sales support; if a repair is not possible, we will guide you through a remake.
Besides waterproof leg covers, Silobionic makes custom silicone finger and hand prostheses, foot prostheses, silicone ears and skin covers for scars.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go into water with the cover on?
The cover helps protect the parts from water and dirt, but whether you can use the prosthesis in water depends on its components and socket. If you plan to swim, tell us during your consultation.
Can a cover be made for the prosthesis I already have?
The cover is made to fit the prosthesis you use. We check your prosthesis in person at the consultation and advise from there.
How do I clean the cover?
Silicone copes well with water and heat, so it can be washed when dirty. We explain how to clean it when you receive it.
Can leg hair be added?
Yes. If you wish, we can set hair into the cover to match your other leg.
