The makers of ‘the world’s coolest prosthetic leg covers’ - award winning LIMB-Art - have launched at Wirral Limb Centre.

Over 730 amputees are currently registered at the centre, which is based in Clatterbridge Hospital, part of Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

The centre is a regional specialist unit providing client centred holistic and multi-disciplinary care to amputees including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pre-amputation consultations and counselling.

Wirral Globe: A selection of LIMB-Art's designsA selection of LIMB-Art's designs

Sarah Evans is a prosthetist at Ottobock at the Wirral Limb Centre, which provides the services of prosthetists, prosthetic technicians and administrative staff at the centre.

She said: “LIMB-Art covers give the patient a greater input into optimising the appearance of their prosthetic leg.

“The cover restores the shape of the prosthesis to match that of the sound limb but without trying to make the prosthesis appear to be a “normal” leg.

“It also protects the componentry underneath which, particularly in the case of microprocessor knees, can be thousands of pounds worth of componentry.

“We believe that giving the patient an active role in producing their prosthesis helps with acceptance which is positive for their mental health.

“All the patients that have received the LIMB-Art covers we have provided have been really pleased with the cosmesis they provide and are excited to see the patterns they have chosen."

Wirral Globe: Mark Williams of LIMB-ArtMark Williams of LIMB-Art

LIMB-Art was established in 2018 by Mark Williams, a former Paralympic swimmer, to design and manufacture prosthetic leg covers after he lost his own leg in a cycling accident.

He wanted to help other prosthetic users raise their confidence, be proud of what they have and very simply, but equally importantly, have fun showing off whilst doing so.

Sarah added: “At the Wirral Limb Centre we are extremely proud of Mark and his achievements. He has really made a difference to so many amputees using his own life experiences to develop his covers and providing an affordable solution that gives patients an important input into their prosthetic care.”

Mark's covers are a completely customisable accessory, lightweight and easy to fit and they are suitable for all users of above and below knee prostheses.

The covers not only give the wearer a full leg shape and restore balance to their silhouette, they also boost their confidence and allow them to show their personality because the brand offer a whole range of colours and designs.

Mark said: “I’m delighted to be working with Wirral Limb Centre and to be able to help other amputees to gain their confidence and, like our strapline says, stand out and stand proud.”

Last year, Mark won the national Entrepreneurial Spirit Award for 2020 at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

To find out more, visit www.limb-art.com