Custom 3D-Printed AFO That Lets You Move Without Limits
A next-generation ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), custom 3D printed to match every foot and gait. Built to reduce pain, improve stability, and help patients move with confidence.
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Mobility
Most ankle-foot orthoses feel bulky and outdated.
They’re heavy, uncomfortable, and often make everyday movement harder than it should be.
We built something better—a lightweight, custom 3D printed AFO that works.
A brace so discreet it feels invisible, yet powerful enough to support every step with confidence.
Because mobility isn’t about compromise—it’s about comfort, confidence, and freedom.
Our Amazing Partners
Bring Innovation Into Your Clinic with PROTECT3D AFOs
Instead of outdated plaster casting, you can capture an iPhone® scan in minutes and deliver a fully custom, patient-specific brace in about a week.
The result is streamlined workflow for your team, faster turnaround for patients, and outcomes that boost your practice as a leader in modern orthopedics.
Why It Matters for Providers?
- Faster fittings with iPhone® scan—no plaster casting required.
- Higher compliance = improved patient satisfaction and outcomes.
- Covered by insurance, with new revenue streams for clinics.
- Lightweight design reduces returns, remakes, and non-compliance.
For Orthopedic Surgeons
- A proven conservative option to delay or avoid surgical intervention
- Maintain continuity of care while protecting long-term joint health
- Support faster recovery and improved mobility with high-compliance
- Strengthen patient trust by offering a modern, evidence-based solution
For Clinics
- Efficient digital workflow from scan to delivery in about a week
- Wholesale model designed to support clinic sustainability
- Multiple brace models designed for arthritis, foot drop, and athletes
- Easy onboarding with training and support from PROTECT3D experts
Patient Outcomes That Redefine Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs)
I don’t have to worry about being in pain anymore.
PROTECT3D AFO Heavy for Ankle Arthritis
Patient demographic
A 62-year-old former athlete, struggling with post-traumatic ankle arthritis, likely nearing surgical intervention.
Device design
The AFO was designed to provide tri-planar control of his ankle and foot and a “bounce” during the toe-off phase of his gait cycle.
Results
FAAM ADL score increased from 15 to 54 after 3 months of wearing the AFO. Pain reduction from 7/10 to 3/10 over the same time span.
Pain Reduced
7/10 → 3/10
FAAM-ADL Score
15 → 54
PROTECT3D AFO Standard for Foot Drop in Collegiate Athlete
Patient demographic
College soccer player with post-surgical foot drop
Device design
The PROTECT3D AFO was designed to fit in soccer cleats, support dorsiflexion and facilitate a natural gait pattern
Results
Allowed him to progress through rehabilitation all the way to competing in gameplay running full speed and changing direction laterally.
The PROTECT3D AFO is really comfortable and doesn’t feel like I’m wearing anything at all.
PROTECT3D AFO Heavy for PTTD in Senior Patient
Patient demographic
74-year-old female with PTTD, severe hindfoot pain, and numbness.
Device design
The PROTECT3D AFO Heavy was built to provide strong support, reduce hindfoot stress, and stabilize gait while easing pressure points.
Results
Delivered significant pain relief and noticeable gait improvement, allowing her to walk with more comfort and confidence.
I just wanted to say thank you. This brace is nothing short of a miracle. It truly is life changing for me at this point.
Ready to write your own success story?
Custom Orthotic Solution That Patients Actually Want to Wear
PROTECT3D™ Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO) isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a lightweight, low-profile, custom 3D-printed brace designed to fit, reduce pain, and restore confidence in every step—whether you’re a patient, athlete, or anyone seeking real mobility.
Supports natural gait mechanics, improves dorsiflexion, and helps patients walk with stability.
Reduces pain, restores mobility, and delays or avoids the need for surgical intervention.
Provides tri-planar support to relieve strain and improve long-term function.
Engineered to fit into cleats or athletic footwear, it enables performance without compromise.
A modern, comfortable replacement for bulky traditional braces that disrupt daily life.
Your Next Step Could Feel Effortless with a Custom AFO Brace
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
Prescription
Your provider prescribes PROTECT3D AFO like a traditional brace.
3D Scan
A quick 3D scan is taken in minutes—fast and highly accurate.
Fabrication
PROTECT3D digitally fabricates and 3D prints your custom AFO.
Delivery
Your brace is delivered in as little as one week for a perfect fitting.
The Next Generation of Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO)
Protect3D™ AFO Heavy
For advanced support and maximum stability.
- Ideal for severe arthritis or joint instability
- Tri-planar control stabilizes the ankle
- Adds a spring-like “bounce” for smoother walking
- Designed to reduce pain and avoid surgery
PROTECT3D™ AFO Standard
For mobility, comfort, and active lifestyles.
- Perfect for athletes seeking a natural feel
- Supports dorsiflexion for foot drop
- Slim enough to fit in regular shoes
- Designed for a natural gait without bulk
Traditional AFO vs Protect3D™ 3D Printed AFO
Traditional AFO (Off-the-Shelf)
Protect3D™ 3D Printed AFO
Fitting
Generic, one-size-fits-all fit often leads to a poor user experience.
Fully Custom: Precisely made for you, based on a 3D scan for a perfect, anatomical fit.
Comfort
Bulky, heavy, and can cause skin irritation, especially with long-term wear.
Slim, Lightweight, & Breathable: Engineered to be discreet and comfortable for all-day use.
Compliance
Low patient compliance, as the brace is often uncomfortable and difficult to wear.
High Patient Compliance: So comfortable and discreet, patients are more likely to wear it consistently.
Turnaround Time
The manual casting process can take weeks from consultation to delivery.
5–7 Days: Our streamlined process gets a custom 3D printed AFO to you in just a week from your scan.
Shoe Compatibility
Its bulky design severely limits the types of shoes you can wear.
Fits Most Footwear: The low-profile design of our lightweight AFO brace allows it to fit comfortably in a wider range of shoe.
Find Your Ideal 3D-Printed Foot Clamshell Solution
I’ve been prescribing PROTECT3D bracing for 18 months and the results have been life-changing for my patients.
Kent Ellington, MD
Foot & Ankle Surgeon, Orthocarolina
Wondering About PROTECT3D AFO?
What is an AFO brace and what is it used for?
An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is a medical device designed to support and stabilize the ankle and foot. It is commonly used to help with conditions like foot drop, arthritis, or stroke recovery, as it improves walking and reduces pain.
How are Protect3D's 3D printed AFO braces different from traditional ones?
Our 3D printed AFOs are custom-made to your unique anatomy using a precise 3D scan. Traditional braces are made from generic molds, which can be bulky and uncomfortable. Our process results in a lightweight AFO brace that is more comfortable and designed for a superior fit.
Can a custom AFO brace truly help with foot drop?
es, absolutely. Our Protect3D™ AFO Standard is a specially designed AFO for foot drop. It provides the support to lift the front of your foot, making walking easier and reducing the risk of tripping. The custom fit ensures it works in harmony with your natural gait.
What is the best AFO for conditions like arthritis?
The Protect3D™ AFO Heavy is designed for severe arthritis and joint instability. It provides excellent stability and support, which helps in pain reduction. Its tri-planar control stabilizes the ankle in all directions, making it the best AFO for arthritis and similar conditions.
Is your lightweight AFO brace strong enough for sports or an active lifestyle?
Yes. Our lightweight AFO brace is made from advanced, durable 3D materials. It’s built to withstand the demands of an active lifestyle, including sports and daily activities. Its slim design also allows it to fit comfortably in athletic shoes and cleats, so you can stay active without compromise.
How long does it take to get a custom AFO brace from Protect3D?
Thanks to 3D printing technology, our process is much faster than traditional methods. Once we receive your 3D scan, we can quickly design and print your custom AFO brace, getting it to you faster so you can get back to your life.
Ready to Move Better, Feel Better, and Live Better?
The PROTECT3D™ AFO is designed for comfort, speed, and results, so you can get back to what matters most.
Copyright © Protect3D. All rights reserved.