Custom AFO, Ankle & Knee Braces in NYC: Personalized Support for Every Step
by
Gramercy Physical Therapy
Foot, ankle, and knee pain affect millions of people in New York City every day—whether from arthritis, sports injuries, neurological conditions, or long hours spent standing and walking. At Gramercy Custom Orthotics & AFO, we specialize in designing and fitting custom AFO, ankle, and knee braces that provide real relief and restore mobility. Unlike store-bought supports, our braces are precision-made to match your body and condition, ensuring long-term comfort and effectiveness.
👉 Learn more about our process here: Custom Orthotics at Gramercy.
Why Patients Need Custom Braces
Generic braces you find online or in a drugstore are designed for the “average foot or leg.” But no two patients are alike. A custom brace accounts for:
Your exact anatomy → 3D casting or scanning ensures a precise fit.
Your diagnosis → braces for arthritis differ from those for sports injuries or neurological conditions.
Your lifestyle → a runner, a construction worker, and an office professional all need different levels of flexibility and durability.
Long-term health → properly fitted braces prevent further joint strain, falls, and secondary injuries.
Custom means you get medical-grade support built for you—not a compromise.
Step Into Comfort & Stability Today.
Custom orthotics can make a real difference in how you move, feel, and live.
Call (212) 598-5913 or
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Our Services
At Gramercy Custom Orthotics & AFO, we provide a full spectrum of bracing services in NYC:
1. Custom AFO Braces
Designed for patients with foot drop, neurological conditions, or post-stroke recovery.
Supports dorsiflexion and prevents tripping.
Encourages a safer, more natural gait.
Lightweight designs that fit inside everyday shoes.
2. Custom Ankle Braces
Ideal for chronic ankle sprains, arthritis, and ligament injuries.
Provides stability during walking and sports.
Reduces swelling and pressure on the ankle joint.
Prevents re-injury in active patients.
3. Custom Knee Braces
Perfect for arthritis, ligament tears (ACL/MCL), or post-operative recovery.
Offloads pressure on painful areas.
Restores stability and confidence.
Tailored for both active and daily lifestyles.
Each brace is created based on a comprehensive evaluation and custom fabrication process that ensures accuracy and durability.
The Gramercy Custom Fitting Process
When you come to our NYC clinic, here’s what you can expect:
Evaluation & Gait Analysis – Our clinicians assess your movement, posture, pain patterns, and daily activity needs.
Casting or 3D Scanning – We take precise molds or scans of your foot, ankle, or knee for a perfect anatomical match.
Fabrication – Your brace is crafted from high-quality, medical-grade materials designed for both comfort and function.
Fitting & Adjustments – We make sure your brace feels right, moves with your body, and doesn’t cause irritation.
Follow-Up Care – As your condition improves or changes, we fine-tune your brace to maintain the right level of support.
This hands-on clinical process is what separates us from online vendors and generic devices.
Why NYC Patients Choose Gramercy
Patients across Manhattan and the greater NYC area trust Gramercy because we offer:
One-on-one evaluations in private rooms.
Seamless care—our braces are often integrated into physical therapy treatment plans.
Convenient Gramercy Park location, easily accessible to Union Square, Kips Bay, and Midtown.
Decades of combined clinical expertise in orthotics, bracing, and rehabilitation.
We don’t just give you a brace—we make sure it works as part of your recovery and long-term wellness.
Our Team
David Rabe, CPO
Clinical Director
David Rabe brings more than 30 years of expertise in orthotics, prosthetics, and medical rehabilitation. Widely recognized as a national leader in custom bracing and patient-centered mobility solutions, he has founded and directed multiple orthotic and prosthetic practices throughout New York and New Jersey. His career includes serving as Vice President of Rehabilitation Services at a major health system and holding senior leadership roles in both clinical care and product development.
Gene Shenker, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy | CEO
Dr. Gene Shenker, DPT, is the founder of Gramercy Physical Therapy in New York City and a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy. For more than 15 years, he has been recognized for his patient-centered approach and expertise in manual therapy, providing high-quality care to individuals across Manhattan. His background spans outpatient and specialized rehabilitation, where he has built close partnerships with orthotists and prosthetists to deliver fully integrated treatment programs. Committed to innovation, Dr. Shenker continues to advance the field of rehabilitation through technology-driven solutions that improve patient outcomes.
Take the First Step Toward Better Support
If you’ve been relying on generic braces that don’t fit, or if you’ve been told you need a custom AFO, ankle, or knee brace, we’re here to help.
At Gramercy Custom Orthotics & AFO, we deliver personalized bracing solutions designed around your condition, comfort, and goals.
👉 Book your consultation today: https://gptny.com/custom-foot-orthotics
FAQs
1. How long does it take to get a custom brace made?
Most custom braces are ready within 2–3 weeks after your initial evaluation and casting. Rush options may be available depending on the case.
2. Do insurance plans cover custom AFO, ankle, or knee braces?
Yes, many insurance providers cover custom braces when prescribed as medically necessary. Our office can help verify your benefits and assist with paperwork.
3. Can I wear normal shoes with a custom AFO brace?
In most cases, yes. Modern AFOs are designed to fit into standard footwear. During your fitting, we’ll guide you on the best shoe styles for optimal comfort and support.
4. How do I know if I need a custom knee brace instead of an off-the-shelf one?
If you have ongoing pain, instability, or a complex injury that isn’t relieved by store-bought supports, a custom knee brace may provide the precision fit and durability you need.
5. What’s the difference between a custom ankle brace and a custom orthotic insert?
An orthotic insert supports the arch and foot inside the shoe, while an ankle brace stabilizes the ankle joint itself. In some cases, patients benefit from both.