Foot Orthotic Insoles Market

Market Overview

The global foot orthotic insoles market size was valued at USD 4.29 billion in 2022. It is estimated to reach USD 7.30 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period (2023–2031).

Orthotic insoles can also benefit conditions such as metatarsalgia, bunions, hammer toes, shin splints, and Achilles tendonitis. Additionally, they can help individuals with certain biomechanical issues, such as leg length discrepancies, by providing corrective support. To obtain custom orthotic insoles, a healthcare professional will typically thoroughly assess the individual's foot structure, biomechanics, and any existing foot conditions. This may involve taking measurements, conducting gait analysis, and considering the individual's symptoms and medical history. Based on these evaluations, the orthotics are designed and manufactured to address the individual's unique needs.

It's important to note that while orthotic insoles can provide significant relief and support, they may not be suitable or necessary for everyone. Proper diagnosis and guidance from a healthcare professional are crucial to determine if orthotics are appropriate for an individual's foot condition or concern. Overall, foot orthotic insoles are specialized shoe inserts customized or prefabricated to address various foot conditions, provide support, improve foot function, and enhance overall comfort. Furthermore, orthotic insoles can enhance the overall comfort of the footwear. They can provide a better fit, reduce friction and pressure points, and offer additional padding and arch support. This is very beneficial for people who spend long hours on their feet or engage in high-impact activities.

Market Dynamics

Global Foot Orthotic Insoles Market Drivers

The Rising Geriatric Population

The rising geriatric population is a significant driver for the global foot orthotic insoles market. As the world's population ages, there is a higher prevalence of foot-related problems among older adults. Conditions such as arthritis, flat feet, and deformities become more common with age, leading to discomfort, pain, and reduced mobility. Foot orthotic insoles are increasingly recognized as an essential treatment option for addressing these foot-related issues in older people. They provide support, alleviate pain, and improve overall foot function, enabling older individuals to maintain an active lifestyle and independence. By offering stability, cushioning, and proper alignment, orthotic insoles can reduce the strain on the feet and promote a more comfortable walking experience for older people. In addition, the aging population often experiences conditions like osteoporosis and reduced muscle strength, which can contribute to foot instability and balance problems. Orthotic insoles can help address these issues by enhancing stability, improving balance, and reducing the risk of falls, thus promoting overall safety and well-being in older people.

The Increasing Incidence of Diabetes and Plantar Fasciitis

The increasing incidence of diabetes and plantar fasciitis is another significant driver for the global market. These conditions affect many individuals worldwide and often require interventions to manage foot-related complications. Diabetes is a stable metabolic condition that can lead to various foot complications, such as neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral arterial disease (reduced blood circulation). These conditions increase the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations. Foot orthotic insoles play a crucial role in managing diabetic foot care. They can help offload pressure from vulnerable areas, provide cushioning, and reduce friction, reducing the risk of foot ulcers and promoting better foot health.

Plantar fasciitis, characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia (a ligament supporting the arch of the foot), is a common foot condition that causes heel pain. The prevalence of plantar fasciitis has been increasing due to factors such as sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and improper footwear. Orthotic insoles are often recommended as a conservative treatment option for plantar fasciitis. They provide arch support, distribute pressure more evenly, and alleviate strain on the plantar fascia, thus reducing pain and promoting healing.

Global Foot Orthotic Insoles Market Restraints

Lack of Awareness and Accessibility

Lack of awareness and accessibility is a significant restraint for the global market. Despite the benefits and effectiveness of foot orthotic insoles, there is still limited awareness among the general population about their potential to address foot problems and improve foot function. Many individuals may not be familiar with the concept of foot orthotic insoles or may be unaware that these devices can relieve and support various foot conditions. The lack of awareness can result in reduced demand for orthotic insoles, as individuals may not seek them as a treatment option or may not consider them necessary for their foot health.

Global Foot Orthotic Insoles Market Opportunities

Growing Income and Awareness

The increasing income levels in developing countries present a favorable environment for the foot orthotic insoles market growth. Individuals with more disposable income are increasingly willing to invest in their health and well-being, including foot health. This creates a demand for products and services to address foot-related problems and improve overall foot comfort. Furthermore, there is a growing awareness of foot health and the importance of proper foot care in developing countries. With access to information through various channels such as the internet, social media, and healthcare campaigns, individuals are becoming more knowledgeable about foot conditions and the potential benefits of orthotic insoles. They realize that foot problems can impact their daily activities, mobility, and overall quality of life.

This increased awareness drives the demand for foot orthotic insoles as a preventive measure and treatment option. Individuals are seeking ways to alleviate foot pain, enhance foot health, and stop the development of more serious foot conditions. They are proactively seeking solutions to maintain or enhance their foot health.

Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global foot orthotic insoles market is bifurcated into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Central & South America.

North America is the most significant global foot orthotic insoles market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% over the forecast period. The U.S. holds a substantial market share due to increasing demand for foot orthotic insoles. The rise in the prevalence of conditions such as obesity, arthritis, and diabetes further supports market growth. For instance, in 2015, 30.3 million Americans had diabetes. Several local players in the market also support growth, like Spenco, Opedge, and Super Feet. The market is also driven by smart agreements and mergers and acquisitions by market players. For example, in June 2016, Implus announced that it was buying Spenco insoles meant to add to its product line. Moreover, a partnership between government and nonprofit organizations to provide quality healthcare facilities is expected to boost the market. For instance, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) supports Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE). COPE, a Lao nonprofit organization works with the Centre for Medical Rehabilitation to provide free access to nationally managed rehabilitation services.

Europe is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 10.2% over the forecast period. The European foot orthotics market is growing due to this region's rising demand for customized foot orthoses. The growing need for prefabricated foot orthotic insoles in Europe further impels demand. In addition, the market is driven by technological advancements and a rising number of regional manufacturers. The rising prevalence of diabetes also propels the market growth. For instance 2017, according to International Diabetes Federation, more than 58 million people were living with diabetes in this region. The local presence of key players, such as Bayer (Dr. Scholl; Superfeet), and less stringent regulatory approval processes drive the European market. In addition, high disposable income owing to the presence of developed economies and the availability of well-established healthcare infrastructure & skilled professionals are some factors that can be attributed to the market expansion. The availability of favorable reimbursement coverage policies has increased the affordability of prosthetics and orthotics products.

Japan is a technologically advanced country with a well-developed healthcare sector. The country holds a significant share of the regional market. This market's expansion is due in large part to the rising demand for foot orthotic insoles that provide minor support and cushioning to the feet. The market is also driven by growing awareness about orthopedic disorders and foot orthotic products. The growing geriatric population in Japan will likely drive demand for foot orthotic insoles over the forecast period.

India held a considerable market share due to the increase in the geriatric population and the high demand for custom-made foot orthotic insoles. The 2011 census shows that there are about 104 million people aged 60 or above. Moreover, rising disposable income also aids market growth. The need for orthotic insoles is growing due to the demand for comfortable footwear and relief of foot conditions. An increase in the number of initiatives by key players also promotes market growth.

South America holds a considerable market share due to the rising prevalence of diseases that lead to orthotic disorders, such as arthritis, and the increasing geriatric population. Market growth is also aided by rising disposable income and increasing healthcare expenditure. Furthermore, technological advancements for developing innovative and effective products are expected to fuel market demand in the region. The rising number of diabetic patients in the country drives Brazil's foot orthotic market. The prevalence of diabetes in Brazil has reached 7.6%, including individuals between 30 and 69 years old. The number of people suffering from the disease is expected to reach 12 million by 2025. In addition, there is growing concern regarding chronic diseases and other foot disorders, which impels growth. An increase in healthcare expenditure, government investments, and the presence of several players, such as Blatchford, Inc, are some of the factors expected to drive the market.

Segmental Analysis

The global foot orthotic insoles market is bifurcated into materials and applications.

Based on materials, the global market is bifurcated into thermoplastics, polyethylene foams, leather, cork, composite carbon fibers, ethyl-vinyl acetates, gel, and others.

The thermoplastics segment dominates the global market and is projected to exhibit a CAGR of 9.8% over the forecast period. Thermoplastics, the heat-molded form, are increasingly gaining popularity among people who take good care of their feet and those who need therapeutic support while walking. Thermoplastics are fabricated using a neutral-position casting of plantar surfaces of the foot. Semirigid or rigid molded thermoplastic foot orthosis may be used as a treatment method for various foot and lower extremity disorders. Rigid thermoplastics have limited use for geriatric patients with a high physiological reserve and patients with rigid feet. However, semirigid thermoplastic provides better pain tolerance to the senior population and is used for individuals suffering from biomechanical foot pain. Moreover, clinicians provide foot orthotic device therapy to patients by customizing orthotic devices with various materials based on the type of case.

Based on application, the global market is bifurcated into sports & athletic, medical, and personal comfort.

The sports & athletic segment dominates the global market and is projected to exhibit a CAGR of 8.6% over the forecast period. The sports & athletic segment encompasses using foot orthotic insoles by athletes, sports enthusiasts, and individuals engaged in physical activities. Athletes often rely on foot orthotic insoles to enhance their performance, prevent injuries, and aid recovery. These insoles provide support, stability, and shock absorption, improving foot function and reducing the risk of common sports-related foot problems. The increasing participation in sports and physical fitness activities globally drives the demand for foot orthotic insoles in the sports industry. As more people engage in sports and athletic pursuits, there is greater recognition of the importance of foot health and the role of orthotic insoles in optimizing performance and preventing injuries. This trend is particularly evident in professional sports, amateur sports, and recreational activities.

Recent Developments

• April 2023: AXO Footwear launched its new line of 3D-printed foot orthotics. The AXO foot orthotics are made from a proprietary blend of materials that are designed to provide arch support, reduce pain, and improve balance.

• March 2023: Spenco announced the launch of its new Propel insoles. The Propel insoles are designed to provide support and shock absorption for runners and athletes.