A More Adjustable Approach to Socket Fit
Residual limb volume can change throughout the day because of activity, temperature, fluid shifts, positioning, and long-term physiological changes.
Even small changes can create empty space within the socket, leading to movement, pistoning, instability, pressure concentration, and discomfort. Patients may need to repeatedly remove their prosthesis to adjust the fit before continuing their activities.
The Ethnocare Overlay provides a responsive way to manage these changes.
How the Overlay Works
The Overlay is a thin textile sleeve with an integrated air expansion system. It is worn over the patient’s existing prosthetic liner and inside the socket.
When additional support is needed, the user adds a small amount of air using the integrated pump or an external bulb pump. The air cells expand into available space inside the socket, helping restore contact and reduce unwanted movement.
If the residual limb expands or less support is needed, air can be released through the deflation valve. These adjustments can be made while the prosthesis remains donned.
Making the Existing Socket Adjustable
The Overlay is designed as a retrofit solution. It does not require the clinician to fabricate a new socket, permanently modify the existing socket, or change the patient’s alignment.
When deflated, the textile and air system add minimal thickness. Air is introduced only when needed to fill space and improve contact within the socket.
The Overlay does not replace the patient’s suspension system. Instead, it works within the existing prosthetic setup to help improve socket fit, stability, and comfort.
TT and TF Solutions
The Overlay is available for both transtibial and transfemoral users.
The Overlay TT is designed for below-knee prostheses and helps manage space and movement within the transtibial socket.
The Overlay TF is designed specifically for above-knee prostheses, with sizing, length, and air-cell positioning adapted to transfemoral anatomy and socket configurations.
This allows clinicians to use adjustable air-based volume management across lower-limb amputation levels.
Broad Suspension Compatibility
The Overlay can be integrated with common lower-limb suspension methods, including:
- Pin-lock systems
- Lanyard systems
- Suspension sleeves
- Cushion liners
- Seal-in systems
- Passive vacuum systems
- Active vacuum systems
A Dedicated Reimbursement Pathway
Effective April 1, 2026, the Overlay is recognized in the United States under HCPCS code L5657.
The code describes a complete manual or automated adjustable air, fluid, gel, or equivalent socket insert added to a lower-limb prosthesis for the primary purpose of residual limb volume management.
This provides clinicians with a clearer pathway for identifying and billing an adjustable volume-management insert separately from the liner and suspension system.
The existence of an HCPCS code does not guarantee payment. Coverage depends on medical necessity, payer policies, the patient’s insurance plan, and appropriate clinical documentation.
Available Through US Distributors
The Overlay is available to prosthetic clinics throughout the United States through Ethnocare’s distribution partners, including SPS, Hanger, Cascade, and PEL. Clinicians can order through their preferred distributor or contact Ethnocare for assistance identifying the appropriate purchasing option for their clinic.
Simple Clinical Integration
Fitting begins with evaluating the patient’s residual limb, socket fit, suspension system, and pattern of volume fluctuation.
The clinician then selects the appropriate TT or TF model, size, length, side, and suspension configuration. The patient is instructed on proper positioning, inflation, deflation, and product care.
No specialized equipment or permanent socket modification is required.
For clinicians, the Overlay provides an additional option for managing volume fluctuations and inconsistent socket fit. For patients, it offers greater control over a prosthetic socket that would otherwise remain static while the residual limb changes.
Contact Ethnocare at clinics@ethnocare.ca to learn more about the Overlay TT and TF, request clinical information, or schedule a presentation for your team.
Coming Soon: New Overlay TT XShort Sizes
Ethnocare is expanding the Overlay TT range with new XShort sizes designed for patients with shorter residual limbs and more limited available space inside the socket.
More information on sizing, availability, and clinical fitting recommendations will be announced soon. Stay tuned!
Follow Ethnocare on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest product updates and launch announcements.
