TayCo Brace
Ankle injuries are a common problem, affecting not only athletes but the general public as well.
Individuals with ankle injuries have long sought effective ways to stabilize their ankles. Walking boots, though supportive, greatly limit movement and often serve as a constant reminder to the wearer of their limitations.
TayCo Brace, a University of Notre Dame startup based in South Bend, IN, offers a promising solution. According to the company, its brace, named the TayCo Brace, significantly enhances mobility and stability compared to walking boots.
Designed for athletes and ankle-injury patients, the brace has allowed those who have used it to return to normal activities far more quickly and with fewer disruptions than those wearing walking boots.
The brace fits over cleats, athletic shoes and work boots, providing essential support for anyone with an ankle injury.
Founded in 2016 by Mike Bean, an athletic trainer for the University of Notre Dame’s football team, Dr. Fred Ferlic, an orthopedic surgeon, and Gavin Ferlic, the current CEO, TayCo Brace aims to offer a comfortable and practical brace.
Collaborating with Surestep and Midwest Orthotics and Technology Center (now Transcend Orthotics and Prosthetics), the team developed an innovative, patented over-the-shoe ankle brace. This design includes a wrap-around, rigid footplate, side-specific uprights, and adjustable straps to prevent ankle twists and lateral movements, thus allowing a full range of motion without compromising walking capabilities. According to Bean, the external design also helps patients resume daily activities much sooner than with a walking boot.
"Our goal for TayCo Brace was to provide unparalleled comfort and stability while allowing patients and athletes to wear their preferred footwear," said Bean. "We succeeded in developing an exclusive over-the-shoe ankle brace, utilizing cutting-edge features like the wrap-around footplate and adjustable straps. Our focus was on enabling movement while preventing injuries. I’m proud to say that Tayco Brace accomplishes just that."
Bean initially tested the TayCo Brace during a Notre Dame football game. A player with an ankle sprain found immediate relief through the brace and was cleared to return to play with the brace on. To Bean’s great delight, in the same game the player was even able to make a touchdown without discomfort. This success highlighted the brace's potential.
Though initially intended for athletes, the TayCo Brace now benefits a wide range of individuals with ankle injuries. According to the company, it offers a more comfortable and safer alternative to walking boots, avoiding gait pattern changes and leg length discrepancies. Many patients also use the brace in post-surgery rehabilitation to restore ankle function with stability.
"We appreciate the opportunities aligned with TayCo Brace’s vision to redefine injury recovery," said Ferlic. "As we expand distribution, sales and product lines, we remain committed to helping patients return to normal activities as soon as possible, thus making a meaningful impact on their well-being."
According to Ferlic, the IDEA Center at the University of Notre Dame has been instrumental in the company, including patenting the TayCo Brace and providing valuable resources, including market connections, board representation and mentorship.
“The unwavering support and leadership from the IDEA Center has been instrumental in shaping our remarkable journey,” said Ferlic. “In addition to fundraising support and mentorship, they’ve really helped us build a network and a community that supports us.”
Since its inception, TayCo Brace has secured $1.8 million in investments and diversified its product line to four distinct models. The braces are also used by more than 85 NCAA schools, 22 NFL teams and more than 400 medical providers, highlighting their efficacy and widespread adoption.
Additionally, this rapidly-growing company has achieved over $6 million in sales and employs eight people, including six in South Bend.
For further details about the company, success stories and available products for purchase, visit the TayCo Brace website.