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.
Custom AFO, Ankle & Knee Braces Personalized Support Custom Ankle-Brace Custom Foot-Brace
5.0
- Same-Day Appointment are Available
- New Patient Special Offer
- Insurance Accepted
who we are
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.
875+
Reviews from clients
Services
Our Proven
Process.
At Gramercy Custom Orthotics & AFO, we provide a full spectrum of bracing services in NYC:
01Custom AFO Braces
01Custom AFO Braces
Designed for patients with foot drop, neurological conditions, or post-stroke recovery.
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Supports dorsiflexion and prevents tripping.
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Encourages a safer, more natural gait.
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Lightweight designs that fit inside everyday shoes.
02Custom Ankle Braces
02Custom Ankle Braces
Ideal for chronic ankle sprains, arthritis, and ligament injuries.
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Provides stability during walking and sports.
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Reduces swelling and pressure on the ankle joint.
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Prevents re-injury in active patients.
03Custom Knee Braces
03Custom Knee Braces
Perfect for arthritis, ligament tears (ACL/MCL), or post-operative recovery.
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Offloads pressure on painful areas.
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Restores stability and confidence.
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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.
Best Orthotics & prosthetics service
Customer Choice
Why choose us
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:
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Your exact anatomy → 3D casting or scanning ensures a precise fit.
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Your diagnosis → braces for arthritis differ from those for sports injuries or neurological conditions.
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Your lifestyle → a runner, a construction worker, and an office professional all need different levels of flexibility and durability.
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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.
- Hands-On, Not Rushed
- Personalized Care
- Same-Day Appointments
- Flexible Scheduling
Microprocessor KAFO
(Powered Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis)
A Microprocessor KAFO (MP-KAFO)—also known as a powered or active Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis—is one of the most advanced forms of lower-limb bracing available today. Unlike traditional locked or mechanical KAFOs, microprocessor-controlled systems use real-time sensors, onboard electronics, and intelligent control algorithms to dynamically stabilize the knee and support the ankle during walking and standing.
At Gramercy Custom Orthotics & AFO in Manhattan, Microprocessor KAFOs are prescribed for patients with complex knee instability, neuromuscular weakness, and high fall risk who require a level of support that conventional bracing cannot provide.
What Is a Microprocessor KAFO?
A Microprocessor KAFO is a battery-powered orthotic system that spans the thigh, knee, ankle, and foot, integrating mechanical support with electronic control.
Key components include:
Rigid or semi-rigid thigh and calf shells
A microprocessor-controlled knee joint
An articulated ankle joint with a footplate
Embedded sensors that analyze gait mechanics in real time
The microprocessor continuously interprets movement data—such as limb position, loading response, and walking speed—and automatically adjusts knee stability during each phase of gait. This allows the knee to remain stable during stance while permitting controlled knee flexion during swing.
Who Is a Candidate for a Microprocessor KAFO?
Microprocessor KAFOs are typically prescribed for patients with combined knee and ankle instability who cannot be adequately managed with an AFO or standard KAFO.
Common indications include:
Severe quadriceps weakness
Post-polio syndrome
Incomplete spinal cord injury
Stroke with knee instability and foot drop
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Neuromuscular disorders affecting stance-phase control
Recurrent knee buckling with high fall risk
These devices are particularly valuable for patients who require stance-phase knee control but wish to regain smoother, more functional walking.
Key Features of a Microprocessor KAFO
Intelligent Knee Stability
The electronic knee unit can lock, unlock, or modulate resistance automatically, providing stance-phase security without forcing the knee to remain locked throughout gait.
Active or Semi-Active Assistance
Depending on the system, the device may:
Assist knee extension during stance
Control knee flexion at initial contact
Reduce sudden knee buckling and instability
Dynamic Ankle Support
Unlike solid AFOs, MP-KAFOs typically include an articulated ankle joint, improving:
Toe clearance
Rollover mechanics
Gait symmetry and efficiency
Lightweight Advanced Materials
Modern Microprocessor KAFOs often use carbon composite frames or 3D-printed structural elements, providing strength, durability, and reduced weight.
Battery-Powered & Programmable
These devices are powered by rechargeable batteries and may include wireless programming, allowing precise customization based on the patient’s gait and functional goals.
Evaluation, Fitting, and Training
A Microprocessor KAFO is never an off-the-shelf device. Successful outcomes require:
Comprehensive biomechanical and gait evaluation
Custom fabrication of thigh, calf, and foot components
Precise alignment of knee and ankle joints
Software programming tailored to the patient
Structured gait training and follow-up adjustments
Microprocessor KAFO fitting is performed within a rehabilitation-driven model, integrating orthotic expertise with physical therapy to ensure safety, comfort, and long-term success.
About Us
The Gramercy Custom Fitting Process
When you come to our NYC clinic, here’s what you can expect:
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Evaluation & Gait Analysis – Our clinicians assess your movement, posture, pain patterns, and daily activity needs.
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Casting or 3D Scanning – We take precise molds or scans of your foot, ankle, or knee for a perfect anatomical match.
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Fabrication – Your brace is crafted from high-quality, medical-grade materials designed for both comfort and function.
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Fitting & Adjustments – We make sure your brace feels right, moves with your body, and doesn’t cause irritation.
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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:
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One-on-one evaluations in private rooms.
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Seamless care—our braces are often integrated into physical therapy treatment plans.
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Convenient Gramercy Park location, easily accessible to Union Square, Kips Bay, and Midtown.
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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.
Gene Shenker, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy | CEO
Education & Experience
Dr. Gene Shenker is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy and the founder of Gramercy Physical Therapy in New York City. Renowned for his patient-centered and manual therapy approach, Dr. Shenker has been delivering premium-quality care to New Yorkers for over 16 years.
With extensive experience across both outpatient and specialized care settings, he has cultivated strong collaborations with orthotists and prosthetists to create an integrated rehabilitation programs. His work is aimed at advancing the field of rehabilitation through technology-driven solutions.
Dr. Shenker’s commitment to clinical excellence and forward-thinking design is perfectly encapsulated in his patented innovation, RehabStride™. This groundbreaking, adjustable ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) was meticulously engineered to prioritize restorative mobility and functional recovery. By providing a revolutionary solution to biomechanical challenges that have historically been overlooked, the RehabStride™ AFO brace optimizes a patient’s natural gait and unlocks their full walking potential.
David Rabe, CPO
Clinical Director
Education & Experience
With over three decades of experience in orthotics, prosthetics, and medical rehabilitation, David Rabe is a nationally recognized leader in custom bracing and patient-centered mobility solutions. He has founded and led multiple orthotic and prosthetic practices across New York and New Jersey, served as Vice President of Rehabilitation Services at a major health system, and held executive leadership roles in both clinical and product development settings.
David has been directly involved in every aspect of care—from clinical fittings and fabrication to managing multi-site operations and launching additive manufacturing labs. He has secured multiple U.S. utility and design patents for orthopedic devices and brings deep expertise in myoelectric prosthetics, spinal systems, and complex rehabilitation pathways.
He holds a Bachelor of Science from New York University, completed post-graduate training in Orthotics and Prosthetics, and completed a clinical fellowship at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center. David is also a former member of the New Jersey State Licensing Board of Examiners and an active member of AAOP and AOPA.
Reviews
Experience the
Difference.
I have been working with GPT for a partially torn ACL, and they’ve been great. The therapists are knowledgeable and attentive. The office staff are supportive and make it easy to schedule follow up appointments. I recommend GPT to anyone recovering from an injury—they’ve made a tough process so much easier.
Dinara Dussembaev
Absolutely love working with Gene and Anna, was struggling with a knee issue for a long time, finally showing some signs of relief, great pt clinic that actually cares about your wellbeing
Bartek Do
I’ve been seeing Anna to work on my neck/shoulders ever since pulling my neck. She’s been super helpful with relieving stress/pressure and giving me exercises.
Jennifer Gu
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.