An improved liner (i.e., prosthetic liner) for covering a residual limb of
an amputee is provided. According to one exemplary embodiment, the liner
includes a fabric liner body that is formed of at least two fabric pieces
and a stretch limiting element that is incorporated into an exterior
surface of the distal end of the fabric liner body for reinforcement of
the liner's distal end and for limiting stresses associated with distal
end elongation. For example, the stretch limiting element can be in the
form of a coating of a material that has limited flexibility and is
integrally adhered to the outer surface of the fabric liner body such
that the material seeps into the interior of the fabric liner body and
optionally into any seams. Since the coating is integrally adhered to the
fabric liner body and has an elasticity that is lower than that of the
fabric liner body, the coating serves as a stretch limiting,
anti-elongation element which counters forces that tend to result in the
fabric liner body being stretched out during normal every day use.
