You Belong Here
Our mission is to utilize state-of-the-art technology to produce a vast array of the highest quality prosthetics and ensure that “Live Life Without Limitations” is a reality for all our patients.
Making a Difference with Every Step
Our facility’s highly skilled and experienced prosthetists work closely with you to meticulously fabricate a custom prosthetic socket tailored to your unique needs and specifications. Every step of the process is carefully monitored to ensure that your prosthetic fits you comfortably and functions seamlessly. We use the latest technologies and materials to create prosthetic sockets that are both durable and comfortable, allowing you to live your life to the fullest.
Our team is committed to providing exceptional care and support to our clients. Our in-house insurance task force has a proven track record of successfully getting claims for prosthetic care approved when initially denied by insurance companies. We focus on ensuring you receive the level of care you deserve, not the level that insurance providers believe you qualify for.
Our facility is equipped with the latest and most advanced equipment and materials for prosthetic and orthotic services. We offer a prosthetic lab, silicone department, 3D printers, gait training, workout equipment, and machinery to ensure our patients receive the comprehensive support they need to fulfill their wishes. All our services are provided under one roof for the convenience of our patients.
At A Step Ahead Prosthetics, our dedicated team is committed to supporting you every step of the way on your prosthetic and orthotic journeys. We are here to help you succeed, thrive, and maximize your mobility. With our expertise and personalized care, we strive to empower you to live life to the fullest. Your success is our priority, and we’re ready to be your trusted allies in achieving your goals.
WE'RE HERE FOR YOU
At A Step Ahead, we have a team of prosthetists, technicians, anaplastologists, insurance claims specialists and trainers who are dedicated to providing you with the best possible care. We support you every step of the way as you work towards your personal goals.
- Understanding Insurance Coverage
- Steps to Navigate Insurance for Prosthetics
- Costs and Out-of-Pocket Expenses
- Insurance Plans and Prosthetic Coverage
A Step Ahead Prosthetics History
Erik Schaffer’s journey in the prosthetics field is both extensive and impressive, marked by significant milestones and contributions to the prosthetic and orthotics community. Here is a summarized timeline highlighting key aspects of his career:
- High School Era: Before even entering college, Erik began his foray into the prosthetics field, laying the foundational stones of his future career.
- College Years (Until 1992): Erik pursued a Bachelor of Science in prosthetics and orthotics, graduating summa cum laude in 1992. Throughout his college years, he was deeply involved in working at prosthetic facilities, balancing education with hands-on experience. By the time he entered college, he had already ascended to the role of head technician at a prominent prosthetics and orthotics facility in Eastern Long Island.
- Early Professional Development (Post-1992): Upon completing his education, Erik underwent a residency, subsequently achieving his American Board for Certification of Orthotics and Prosthetics Certification. This period marked his transition from a student to a certified professional in the field.
- New York State Games for the Physically Challenged (Since 1989): Demonstrating a long-term commitment to supporting athletes with physical challenges, Erik has been a part of the medical staff, providing crucial emergency prosthetic and orthotic treatments and repairs for young athletes aged 4-17.
- Orange Bowl Games for the Physically Challenged (1993-2000): In Miami, Erik expanded his support to include acting as a team leader and chaperone, in addition to providing emergency treatments and repairs at these games.
- A.S.P.I.R.E. 10K and 50-Mile Ocean-To-Sound Relay (Since 1993): As the Support Vehicle Manager, he has been instrumental in providing emergency prosthetic treatments and repairs to amputee runners participating in these endurance events.
- 1997 New York City Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association Award: Recognized for his primary role in the prosthetic care, treatment, and rehabilitation of a New York City police officer injured in the line of duty, Erik Schaffer’s dedication to applying his prosthetic expertise significantly contributed to the officer’s recovery, emphasizing the impact of advanced prosthetic solutions in enhancing life quality for public servants.
- D.A.V. Winter Ski Clinic (1997-2000): Erik contributed his expertise in Colorado, aiding disabled veterans by adjusting prostheses for skiing and offering emergency prosthetic treatments.
- Paralympic Summer Games, Atlanta (1996): Highlighting his international contribution, Erik ran the prep track and Olympic Stadium, ensuring that Paralympic athletes’ prosthetics were in top condition for their competitions through last-minute repairs and modifications
A Step Ahead Prosthetics founded by Erik Schaffer, C.P
- October- A Step Ahead Prosthetics opens its doors in Hicksville, NY with four employees.
- Erik Schaffer’s Global Influence (April 2002): Selected as one of only seven practitioners worldwide to contribute to the development of a new pediatric prosthetic line at the Ossur ICAP Conference in Iceland.
- Pediatric Prosthetics Leadership (April 2003): Served as a panelist for the Ossur Pediatric Focus Group, emphasizing his expertise in pediatric prosthetics.
- Contributing Author on Prosthetics (September 2004): Erik Schaffer authored an influential article on hip disarticulation socket designs for the Amputee Coalition of America, sharing valuable insights into advanced prosthetic solutions.
- A Step Ahead’s New Home (September 2004): A Step Ahead Prosthetics moves to a new facility on Newbridge Road, Hicksville, NY, marking a significant milestone in its history.
- Record-Breaking Performance at ASPIRE 10K (2004): Sponsored athletes from A Step Ahead set two course records in Plainview, NY, showcasing the impact of high-quality prosthetics on athletic achievement.
- Challenged Athlete Star of the Year (2004): Sarah Reinertsen is honored as the San Diego Hall of Champions Challenged Athlete Star of the Year after becoming the first female leg amputee to complete the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.
- Innovative Prosthetic Technology Feedback (2004): Erik Schaffer plays a crucial role in testing and providing feedback on seal-in liner technology, leading to the development of a new above-knee liner system.
- Pediatric Liner Development Contribution (2003): Highlighted as one of only seven prosthetists invited by Ossur for the development of a new line of pediatric liners, reinforcing his leadership in prosthetic innovation.
- Amy Palmiero-Winters sets a world record at the Chicago Marathon with a time of 3:04, the fastest for a below-knee amputee, on an A Step Ahead prosthesis.
- Sarah Reinertsen receives the 2006 Best Female Athlete with a Disability ESPY Award and is named USAT Best Female Physically Challenged Triathlete of the Year after competing on “The Amazing Race.”
- Kelly Bruno becomes the first amputee to serve as a ballperson at the U.S. Open, breaking barriers for amputees in sports.
- A Step Ahead Staff contribute to osseointegration research in Sweden, exploring advancements in prosthesis attachment without a socket.
- Amy Palmiero-Winters wins the James E. Sullivan Award, marking her as the top amateur athlete in the U.S., and makes history by finishing first overall in the Arizona Road Racers Run to the Future ultramarathon.
- John Tartaglio completes the New York City Marathon as a bilateral hip disarticulation amputee, demonstrating extraordinary endurance.
- Sandy Dukat breaks the women’s marathon record for above-knee amputees at the Rock n’ Roll Marathon in Phoenix with a time of 4:40:46.
- A Step Ahead Prosthetics partners with Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces, offering prosthetic care to amputee soldiers in a program that continues today.
- Amy Palmiero-Winters wins an ESPN ESPY award for Top Female Athlete with a Disability and becomes the first amputee to compete in the IAU 24-Hour Ultramarathon World Championships as part of a world-championship able-bodied athletic team.
- Kelly Bruno competes on “Survivor,” showcasing the resilience and determination of amputees.
- A Step Ahead demos and test a new bionic ankle-foot system, staying at the forefront of prosthetic technology.
- Amy Palmiero-Winters breaks the marathon world record for below-knee female amputees at the Cleveland Marathon, then outdoes herself at the Chicago Marathon.
- Transition to ultramarathons: Amy Palmiero-Winters switches to ultramarathons, winning several and making history as the first amputee to be named to a U.S. able-bodied championship team and to win an ultramarathon overall.
- Erik Schaffer, C.P., “inMotion” (Nov/Dec 2008) about “Microprocessor and Non-Microprocessor Knee Joints,” detailing prosthetic knee advancements.
2011
- Step Ahead Prosthetics becomes the world’s first private facility certified to offer the BiOM bionic foot and ankle system.
- A Step Ahead pioneers in receiving Ottobock’s Genium microprocessor knee after contributing to its development.
- My Really Cool Leg: Pediatric Patients at A Step Ahead Prosthetics Documentary
2012:
- A Step Ahead Prosthetics expands to Boston, extending its renowned services to New England.
- Aviva Drescher features on “The Real Housewives of New York City,” raising visibility for amputees.
2013:
- Selected by Ottobock, A Step Ahead becomes the first to receive the X3 microprocessor knee, known for its rugged, waterproof design.
- Erik Schaffer, C.P., writes about advancements in hip disarticulation prosthetic design, emphasizing comfort, efficiency, and hygiene.
- Erik Schaffer Fabricates Prosthetic Leg ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy character Dr. Arizona Robbins, played by actress Jessica Capshaw
2014:
- A Step Ahead is chosen for the launch of Össur’s Rheo Knee 3, marking another milestone in prosthetic technology.
- Amy Palmiero-Winters wins World’s Toughest Mudder, demonstrating exceptional endurance.
2015:
- The “SkinTones Systems x A Step Ahead” hyper-realistic silicone department is expanded and relaunched.
- A Step Ahead leads the fight against “One Limb Per Lifetime” legislation in New York, advocating for amputees’ rights.
- Launches Ottobock C-Leg 4 and Össur Rheo Knee 3 Enhanced, staying at the forefront of prosthetic advancements.
- Sandy Dukat climbs 19,347 feet up Mt. Cotopaxi, Ecuador.
- Dan Kosick sets P.R. at Southern Tier Make-A-Wish 5K.
2016:
- Introduces custom-made covers and fairings for an individualized prosthetic experience.
- Partners with American Girl Doll to provide free prosthetics for dolls, supporting children with limb loss.
- Adi Deutsch finishes third overall in his age group alongside able-bodied participants.
- May 20, Jeffrey Glasbrenner is the first American amputee to summit Mount Everest.
- November 5, Sam Rosiello set a new personal record at the NYRR Dash 5K with a time of 59 minutes while raising $10,000 in donations for Achilles International.
2017:
- February 3, Adi Deutsch completes Israman 226 triathlon, finishing fourth in the 55 to 59-year-old age group.
- February 28, Norm becomes the first amputee to win a USA Boxing-sanctioned event!
- July, 2017 Adi Deutsch beats personal record at IronMan Austria with a time of 12:43:45.
- October 8, 2017 Brian Reynolds set a new world record at the Chicago Marathon for Bilateral Below Knee Amputees with a time of 3:06:31!
- November 13, 2017 Dan Kosick achieves new world record for above-knee amputee by conquering 200 obstacles, 10 brutal laps, and 50 miles total all under 23 ½ hours at World’s Toughest Mudder.
- Patient Jeff Glasbrenner Cover of Sports Illustrated! Climbing at Khumbu Ice Falls on Mount Everest. Glasbrenner, who lost his lower right leg in a childhood accident.
2018:
- Daniel Van Nostran: One 2 one collabs with a step ahead and donates High Activity prosthetic device.
- First year of Boston, Massachusetts Bionic 5k Run!
- Born to Run foundation Collabs with A Step Ahead and Donates Prosthetic Legs to Jack Berry.
2019:
- Amy Ran Marathon des Sables: a 156-mile, 6-day staged race in the Sahara Desert becoming the first female amputee to complete the race.
- Brian Reynolds: Brian Reynolds Breaks Half Marathon Record at NYC for Double Amputees.
- Myleanna: Receives High Activity One 2 one collabs with a step ahead and donates prosthetic device.
2020:
- Our facility stayed open the entire time during Covid-19.
- Ryan gifted a ‘running blade’ prosthesis by the Born to Run foundation x A Step Ahead Prosthetics.
2021:
- Jessica Long on the Cover of Sports illustrated!
- Delany receives Dance Prosthetic: One 2 one collabs with a step ahead and donates prosthetic device.
2022:
- Amy Winters: Amy Winters on Netflix Show Episode 1 “human Playground”
- Julez Nivaro: One 2 one collabs with a step ahead and donates running Blade prosthetic device.
2023:
- Patient Cate Hughs lead in Amazon Prime Movie Spaghetti Junction.
- Larry M AK Amputee: One 2 one collabs with a step ahead and donates soccer prosthetic device.
- Gino P BK Amputee: One 2 one collabs with a step ahead and donates Running Blade Prosthetic device.
- Amelia Owens Partial Hand Amputee: One 2 one collabs with a step ahead prosthetic device.
- Jack Berry featured in Cannondale Presents: High Road