Home > Products > Prosthetics > Shrinkers

Shrinkers

Prosthetic shrinkers are elastic garments worn over a residual limb after an amputation to control swelling.

Prosthetic Shrinkers: Preparing Your Limb for a Comfortable, Secure Fit

What Is a Prosthetic Shrinker?

A prosthetic shrinker is a specialized compression garment worn over the residual limb (also called the "stump") after an amputation. Its primary purpose is to reduce swelling, shape the limb, and help prepare it for prosthetic fitting.

At Advanced Prosthetics, we use shrinkers as a vital part of your post-surgical care and prosthetic preparation. A well-shaped, desensitized, and properly compressed residual limb is essential for ensuring a comfortable socket fit and long-term prosthetic success.

Main Types of Prosthetic Shrinkers

  1. Pull-on shrinkers (like a sock)
  2. Wrap-style shrinkers (adjustable compression with Velcro or straps)
  3. Silicone-lined shrinkers (combine compression and gentle grip)

Leading Manufacturers of Prosthetic Shrinkers:

Knit-Rite

  • Known for a wide range of shrinkers in different sizes and compression levels

Ossur

  • Offers shrinkers compatible with their liner and socket systems

ALPS

  • Makes shrinkers with gel interfaces for added comfort and skin protection

Otto Bock

  • Provides shrinkers with consistent compression, designed for upper and lower limbs

Comfort Products

  • Shrinkers available in multiple lengths, plies, and materials (cotton, wool, synthetic)

Why Are Shrinkers Important?

After an amputation, your residual limb may be swollen, tender, and irregular in shape. Prosthetic shrinkers help:

  • Reduce post-surgical swelling (edema)
  • Shape the limb into a more uniform, cylindrical form for better prosthetic socket fit
  • Prevent fluid buildup
  • Support healing and tissue health
  • Desensitize the skin to prepare for wearing a prosthesis

Using a shrinker consistently during the recovery phase can speed up your readiness for prosthetic fitting and reduce complications later on.

How Do Prosthetic Shrinkers Work?

Shrinkers are typically made of elastic, medical-grade fabric that provides gentle, consistent compression. They are designed to be worn snugly over the residual limb and may include:

  • Silicone gel liners for additional comfort and scar management
  • Pull-on or roll-on designs for easy application
  • Distal end pads for even pressure distribution at the end of the limb

Shrinkers come in various sizes and styles depending on the level of amputation—whether below-knee (transtibial), above-knee (transfemoral), or upper extremity.

When Should I Start Wearing a Shrinker?

Your care team at Advanced Prosthetics will guide you on when to begin using a shrinker. In most cases:

  • Shrinkers are introduced after the incision has sufficiently healed and sutures are removed.
  • You’ll be instructed to wear the shrinker daily, often for several weeks or until your limb is ready for casting and socket fitting.
  • Over time, your shrinker size may change as swelling decreases and limb shape stabilizes.

Consistent wear is key to achieving the best prosthetic outcome.

Tips for Using Your Shrinker

  • Put it on first thing in the morning, when swelling is usually minimal.
  • Smooth out wrinkles to avoid pressure spots or irritation.
  • Keep the shrinker clean, washing it regularly to maintain hygiene and elasticity.
  • Replace worn shrinkers as needed—compression effectiveness declines over time.

If your shrinker feels too tight, causes skin irritation, or starts slipping, let your prosthetist know. We’ll help you find the right fit and compression level.

Shrinker Care at Advanced Prosthetics

At Advanced Prosthetics, we ensure that each patient receives:

  • A properly sized shrinker, tailored to your limb and healing progress
  • Education and training on how to wear, remove, and care for your shrinker
  • Ongoing support to track your limb volume and shape during recovery
  • Replacement shrinkers as your residual limb changes

Shrinkers are more than just a garment—they’re an essential part of your recovery and prosthetic journey.

Ready to Begin Your Prosthetic Journey?

If you’ve recently had an amputation or are preparing for one, our team at Advanced Prosthetics is here to support you every step of the way. From post-operative care to prosthetic fitting, we’ll help you build the foundation for successful mobility.

Contact us today to learn more about prosthetic shrinkers and how we can support your recovery.