Stump socks [1] are tubular medical or clothing accessories with a blind end that are fashioned similar to socks, usually without a heel. They are worn on amputation stumps for a number of reasons. As stump socks are typically worn on body parts that do not contain a foot, their definition is distinct from the average sock type garment.
Amputation stumps can be sensitive to cold or heat, [2] particularly as their capacity to regulate tissue congestion is limited. The skin of amputation stumps can be very sensitive to allergic, chemical or mechanical irritation [3] and thus may have to be protected.
There are different types of stump socks, some of which are available individually made to fit, some as industrially manufactured items:
- socks with metal fabric that are worn to reduce phantom sensation or pain [4] [5] [6]
- compression socks that are worn to reduce tissue congestion or swelling [7]
- protective socks or liners that are worn to fit the stump inside a prosthesis [8] [9]
- socks that are worn to keep the stump warm [10]
- socks or liners that contain skin care products on their inside that are released into the skin [11]