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.
Most ankle-foot orthoses feel bulky and outdated.
They’re heavy, uncomfortable, and often restrict natural motion and balance.
We built something better—a lightweight, custom 3D-printed AFO that moves dynamically with you, delivering stability, energy return, and natural freedom without immobilization.
A balance brace so discreet it feels invisible, yet powerful enough to return energy, improve stability, enhance control, and reduce the risk of falls.
Because mobility isn’t about compromise, it’s about comfort, confidence, and freedom.
This is a Patent-pending Product of PROTECT3D That is Created Using PROTECT3D’s Patented Custom Bracing Technology
Patient Outcomes That Redefine Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs)
I don’t have to worry about being in pain anymore.
PROTECT3D AFO 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 for Foot Drop in 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.
Click for an interactive 3D digital rendering of the PROTECT3D AFO
PROTECT3D AFO for PTTD in Senior Patient
Patient demographic
74-year-old female with PTTD, severe hindfoot pain, and numbness.
Device design
The PROTECT3D AFO was built off of her semi-weight bearing scan and was designed to provide comfortable arch support, reduce stress through her arch by preventing further collapse, and provide energy return with each step.
Results
Delivered significant pain relief and noticeable gait improvement, allowing her to walk with greater 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?
Why It Matters for Providers?
- Faster fittings with iPhone® scan with no plaster casting required.
- Higher compliance = improved patient satisfaction and outcomes.
- Strong Insurance Reimbursement Opportunities
- Lightweight design reduces returns, remakes, and non-compliance.
For Distributor Partners
- Offer this product to customers in your area
- Help more patients in your community
- Set yourself apart with novel 3D technology platform
- Grow your business with a best-in-class solution
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.
This is a Patent-pending Product of PROTECT3D That is Created Using PROTECT3D’s Patented Custom Bracing Technology
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 balance brace designed to reduce falls, support the gait cycle dynamically, and restore comfort, stability, and freedom in every step.
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 dynamic arch support that reduces stress and pain, restoring comfort and confidence for PTTD patients.
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
Are you a patient looking for increased support? Reach out to find a provider or one of our distributor partners near you.
Redefining Ankle Support with Dynamic 3D Design
PROTECT3D has developed a patient-specific ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) engineered to provide tri-planar stabilization of the ankle complex while facilitating a unique dynamic energy-response through the gait cycle. By leveraging proprietary digital design algorithms and advanced additive manufacturing, the device offers a sophisticated therapeutic option for the treatment of multiple foot and ankle pathologies.
Preliminary investigations conducted in collaboration with the High Point University (HPU) Biomechanics Research Lab have shown the PROTECT3D AFO to reduce ankle work by up to 30% during the push-off phase of gait. Furthermore, targeted case series have demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported pain levels (VAS) and functional mobility (FAAM-ADL) in patients with ankle arthritis, PTTD, and neuromuscular drop foot.
The clinical efficacy of the orthosis is derived from the synergy of anatomical alignment and material science. Utilizing high-performance 3D-printed materials, the design features variable thickness along the dual struts and footplate to provide a “bounce” or spring-assist mechanism that recaptures potential energy during toe-off.
The product is engineered to provide functional support during motion rather than global immobilization of the joint, distinguishing the PROTECT3D AFO from traditional, restrictive bracing solutions.
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
Prescription
A provider evaluates the need and prescribes a custom PROTECT3D AFO.
3D Scan
A quick and accurate 3D scan captures detailed foot and ankle data.
Fabrication
PROTECT3D designs and manufactures a fully custom AFO using advanced 3D printing.
Delivery
The custom brace is delivered in as little as one week for a precise fit.
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
Either immediate with a poor fit, or a custom brace can take weeks—even months—from consultation to delivery.
5–7 Days: Our streamlined process delivers a truly custom-fit brace in as little as a week from your scan.
Shoe Compatibility
Bulky design often forces you to go up a shoe size, limiting comfort and style.
Fits Most Footwear: The slim, low-profile design fits in your existing sneakers without going up a size.
Find Your Ideal 3d Printed AFO Solution.
I’ve been prescribing PROTECT3D bracing for 2 years 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?
Yes, absolutely. Our PROTECT3D AFO 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 is built for arthritis and joint instability. Unlike rigid braces that immobilize, it provides dynamic support with tri-planar control, energy return, and pain relief—keeping you steady and moving comfortably every day.
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 are designed for comfort, performance, and real results. They help patients move with confidence while giving providers the tools to deliver advanced, custom orthotic care.
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