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.
Experience Dynamic Support for Pain-Free Mobility
Most ankle-foot orthoses feel bulky and outdated.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.
Our Amazing Partners
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 to provide strong support, reduce stress through her arch & hindfoot, and propel her forward with each step
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?
Why It Matters for Providers?
- Faster fittings with iPhone® scan with 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
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
Redefining Ankle Support With Dynamic 3D Design
PROTECT3D has developed a unique ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) product designed to provide both tri-planar support to the ankle complex and a unique dynamic energy response through the use’s gait cycle, which makes its design appealing for the treatment of multiple foot and ankle pathologies.
Preliminary case studies using the PROTECT3D AFO have demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in patient reported pain levels and ability to perform ADLs in ankle arthritis, PTTD, and drop foot patients.
It is hypothesized that the clinical benefit of the AFO is due to the combination of stabilization of the ankle anatomy and the novel energy return to normal gait that is provided by its unique digital design features and the use of advanced 3D printed materials.
The product is designed to provide support during motion rather than immobilize the joints, separating the PROTECT3D AFO from existing bracing solutions.
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
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 arthritis, instability, or rehabilitation
- Tri-planar control stabilizes the ankle
- Provides a spring-like “bounce” that unloads the ankle joint
- Designed to reduce pain and improve function
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
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 about 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 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?
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 is designed for comfort, speed, and results, so you can get back to what matters most.
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