Prosthetic Foot Market

Market Overview

The global prosthetic foot market size was valued at USD 1.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach a value of USD 1.9 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period (2024-2032). The rising incidence of accidents and an increase in amputees among the diabetic population are two of the many reasons driving the prosthetic foot market growth.

A prosthetic foot is an artificial device to replace a missing or amputated natural foot. It is an essential component of lower limb prosthetics, allowing amputees to walk, stand, and participate in numerous activities. Prosthetic feet are designed to resemble the function and appearance of the native Foot, providing support, stability, and movement.

The prosthetic foot market share has experienced substantial growth due to technical advancements, increased amputation cases, and increased awareness of prosthetic alternatives. Carbon fiber materials and innovative biomechanical designs improve user functionality and comfort. The market is fueled by an aging population, increased diabetes-related amputations, and a rise in sports injuries. The industry's key participants aim to provide lightweight, durable, and personalized prosthetic feet to enhance mobility and quality of life for amputees. Government measures promote accessibility and rehabilitation, leading to a market increase. The prosthetic foot industry is expected to grow further due to continuous research, smart prosthetic development, and attempts to address pricing and accessibility issues globally.

Highlights

• Mechanical Foot accounts for the largest share of the market by type.
• Solid Ankle Cushioned Heel (SACH) generates the highest revenue share of the market by product type.
• Adults influenced the market growth by end-users.

Market Dynamics

Global Prosthetic Foot Market Drivers:

Growing Aging Population

The global demographic landscape is substantially transforming, with a rising share of older adults. As people get older, they become more vulnerable to disorders that can result in limb amputations, such as vascular diseases and diabetes complications. As a result, the expanding senior population is a significant driver of the prosthetic foot industry as they seek ways to maintain mobility and an active lifestyle.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global population aged 60 and over is predicted to double by 2050, reaching nearly 2.1 billion. This demographic change is most noticeable in developed regions like Europe, North America, and Asia. In these areas, older people are more likely to have chronic health issues that require amputations, such as peripheral artery disease and diabetes. According to NCBI's 2023 estimate, the number of people with diagnosed diabetes would rise by 31%, from 1.15 million in 1998 to 1.51 million in 2023. According to the analysis, the increase will be substantially more considerable if prevalence in each age group continues to rise. 

Moreover, the older population's desire for independence and an active lifestyle drives the demand for new prosthetic foot technologies. These people frequently seek prosthetic solutions that restore movement and improve their well-being. Manufacturers in the prosthetic foot market respond by producing products tailored to older users' unique needs and preferences, such as increased stability, shock absorption, and customizing choices. As the aging population grows, the prosthetic foot market trend will continue, demanding innovation and accessibility activities.

Global Prosthetic Foot Market Restraints:

Limited Insurance Coverage

In many areas, insurance coverage for prosthetic devices may be limited, posing financial challenges for people seeking prosthetic foot options. A lack of comprehensive insurance coverage may encourage some users to pursue improved and more expensive prosthetic solutions. According to one survey, 20% of persons who have worn a prosthesis have paid out of pocket. According to PrimeCare, a running blade for a below-knee amputee can cost up to USD 3,500. An above-the-knee amputee requiring a knee socket typically pays between USD 8,000 and USD 9,000.

In the United States, for example, a poll performed by the Amputee Coalition found that people with limb loss face significant costs, with 44% of respondents spending more than USD 5,000 out of pocket for prosthetic devices. Furthermore, insurance coverage for prosthetic devices differs significantly across areas and nations. According to a World Health Organization (WHO) assessment, there are differences in access to assistive technology, particularly prosthetic limbs, by financial level. In many low- and middle-income nations, insufficient financial resources and inadequate insurance coverage make it challenging to provide prosthetic devices to those who need them.

Additionally, the lack of complete coverage for prosthetic foot devices burdens persons financially and impacts their well-being and quality of life. Advocacy efforts and policy changes are required to address these constraints in insurance coverage, ensuring that people who need prosthetic foot devices have affordable access to the most sophisticated and appropriate technologies available.

Global Prosthetic Foot Market Opportunity:

Increasing Access to Prosthetic Care

The opportunity rests in efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure, create awareness, and increase access to prosthetic care, particularly in areas previously limited access. Governments, non-profit organizations, and healthcare practitioners will collaborate to make prosthetic options more widely available. The Enable Community Foundation employs 3D printers to make prosthetics and assistive equipment more inexpensive and accessible. The e-NABLE movement relies on volunteers to produce prosthetic devices for people in 83 countries. The foundation aims to help sarcoma amputees buy or obtain an active-wear prosthetic to move and rebuild strength quickly. The foundation also assists amputees who would otherwise be unable to receive prosthetic care. The charity also provides full aftercare and educates the public about the repercussions of limb loss.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 5-15% of people worldwide who require prosthetic and orthotic devices have access to them. This demonstrates a big accessibility gap that has room for improvement. In low- and middle-income nations, a lack of access to prosthetic care is frequently attributed to problems such as inadequate healthcare facilities, a shortage of skilled workers, and financial restraints. Addressing these constraints allows for broadening the scope of prosthetic foot solutions. For example, Jaipur Foot BMVSS is planning camps in 2023 to provide prosthetic limbs, calipers, crutches, hearing aids, and artificial hands.

Furthermore, advances in telehealth and telemedicine technology provide an opportunity to expand prosthetic care services in places with inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and telerehabilitation programs can help prosthetic users get better access and follow-up care.

Regional Analysis

The global prosthetic foot market analysis is conducted in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

North America Dominates the Global Market

North America is the most significant global prosthetic foot market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% over the forecast period. In 2023, North America dominated the market, accounting for 40% of all revenues. This expansion can be ascribed to well-established healthcare infrastructure, increased R&D investment by businesses, and attractive reimbursement rules. Furthermore, increased rates of osteosarcoma and sports injuries are projected to fuel market growth. The U.S. healthcare system's emphasis on quality treatment and value-based services has created a favorable market climate for prosthetics and orthotics. For example, in August 2023, LIMBER Prosthetics & Orthotics, Inc., a San Diego business, obtained a USD 388K investment to create prosthetics and orthotics solutions.

Asia-Pacific is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 7.1% over the forecast period. The regional market is expanding due to increased diabetes-related amputations, road accidents, growing funds, and supportive government initiatives. For example, the Medical Technology Association of Australia reports that in the 2021-2022 Federal Budget, the Government announced AUD 22 million (USD 14.52 million) to overhaul the Prostheses List. These amendments aim to gradually reduce Prostheses List benefits in line with public rates for prostheses. The revisions aimed to give patients the right to pick their clinician and access prosthetic equipment.

Furthermore, the Asian Diabetes Prevention Initiative reported that 60.0% of the diabetic population currently lives in Asia. By 2030, both India and China are predicted to have roughly half a million diabetics. Thus, such factors are projected to drive the market throughout the forecast period.

European countries often have well-established healthcare systems that help make prosthetic devices accessible. Furthermore, emphasizing improving the quality of life for those with limb loss and encouraging inclusivity has fueled advances in prosthetic technology. Europe is at the cutting edge of technological advancements in prosthetic foot design and production. Companies such as Ottobock, Ossur, and Fillauer Europe GmbH are well-known for their advanced prosthetic foot solutions. 

In addition, several European countries have robust healthcare systems that promote access to prosthetic care. Government-funded healthcare programs and insurance coverage frequently help to make prosthetic foot devices more affordable to those in need. In nations such as Germany and the United Kingdom, national healthcare plans often cover prosthetic foot devices, decreasing the financial burden on users.

Some Middle Eastern countries aim for better healthcare facilities, driving prosthetic foot producers to make better products. A substantial surge in diabetes cases has prompted medical technology businesses to develop improved prosthetic feet. Unfortunately, some African countries struggle to improve healthcare facilities and medical support. Diabetes also has a significant economic impact on the global healthcare system. Diabetes is prevalent in various countries in the Middle East and Africa, creating tremendous opportunities for the prosthetic foot industry.

Segmental Analysis

The global prosthetic foot market is segmented based on type, product type, and end-user.

The market is further segmented by type into Mechanical Foot and microprocessor Foot.

Mechanical prosthetic feet are a historic and popular area in the prosthetic business. These feet use mechanical components like springs, dampers, and joints to mimic the basic movements of a real foot. They provide a cost-effective option and are frequently chosen for their simplicity and longevity. Mechanical prosthetic feet are appropriate for people of various activity levels, as they provide minimal support for walking and completing daily tasks. While they lack the advanced capabilities of microprocessor-controlled equivalents, they are nevertheless a viable option for many amputees, particularly those who value dependability and ease of use in their prosthetic equipment.

Microprocessor-controlled prosthetic feet are a technological innovation in the field of prosthetics. These feet use sensors and a microprocessor to constantly monitor and alter the Foot's position and responsiveness based on the user's motions and the environment. The incorporation of smart technology enables a more dynamic and adaptive walking experience. Microprocessor feet can automatically adjust to changes in terrain, walking speed, and incline, giving users a smoother, more natural gait. They are especially useful for people who lead active lifestyles because modern technology improves stability and minimizes the cognitive work necessary to walk. Microprocessor feet are often more expensive than mechanical choices, but the extra functionality and improved user experience make them preferable for many people looking for modern prosthetic solutions.

Based on product type, the prosthetic foot market is fragmented into Solid Ankle Cushioned Heel (SACH) and Elastic Keel Configurations.

The Solid Ankle Cushioned Heel (SACH) prosthetic foot is a traditional and widely used prosthetic design. This form of prosthetic Foot is distinguished by its simplicity and durability. The SACH foot has a robust construction and a locked ankle joint, which provide stability throughout the stance phase of walking. Its cushioned heel usually attenuates shock and simulates the natural heel-to-toe movement motion. SACH feet are appropriate for people with various activity levels, from low to moderately active, and they are frequently chosen due to their dependability and cost-effectiveness. While lacking the dynamic adaptability of more modern designs, SACH feet provide a simple answer for people seeking a practical and long-lasting prosthetic choice.

Elastic Keel Configurations are a more complex and dynamic category of prosthetic Foot. These feet include a flexible and elastic keel, which serves as the Foot's central supportive framework. The elastic keel promotes energy return during the push-off phase of walking, resulting in a more efficient and responsive gait. Prosthetic feet with elastic keel designs are especially useful for more active people, such as those who participate in sports or live an active lifestyle. The design improves the Foot's adaptability to various terrains and walking speeds, resulting in a more natural and energy-efficient walking experience. While elastic keel designs are frequently more expensive than standard SACH feet, the performance benefits make them the favored choice for people who want more capability and responsiveness from their prosthetic devices.

By end-user, the prosthetic foot market can be further bifurcated into Juveniles and adults.

The "Adults" category includes those who have attained adulthood. Adult prosthetic feet are specifically constructed to meet the needs of a fully-grown anatomy. These prosthetic devices may provide a variety of alternatives to accommodate different activity levels, lifestyles, and preferences among adult users. The emphasis is on ensuring stability, comfort, and functionality for daily activities, work, and enjoyment. Adult prosthetic feet are available in various designs, including those appropriate for low, moderate, and high activity levels. Customization and personalization options are frequently offered to meet the different demands of adult users, ensuring that the prosthetic device meets their unique requirements and improves their overall quality of life.

The "Juvenile" section of the prosthetic foot market includes children and teenagers. Juvenile prosthetic feet are intended to meet younger users' specific needs and growth patterns. These prosthetic devices have features that adapt to the changing anatomy of juvenile amputees, ensuring a suitable fit, comfort, and functionality as they grow. Adjustability and personalization are important factors in prosthetic feet for juveniles to accommodate variations in size and shape as the child grows. Furthermore, the design frequently includes characteristics that encourage a child's active lifestyle and involvement in various activities, developing mobility and independence.

Recent Developments

• December 2023- Ottobock and HAWK reached a partnership agreement.
• September 2023- WillowWood® announced the launch of a new brand identity to highlight the company's development into new products and technology. WillowWood manufactures the META® Line of high-performance feet with a unique unibody design, the Alpha Control® myoelectric liner for upper limb bionic prosthetics, and the PDAC-approved lightweight, intuitive, and safe powered INTUY™ Knee, in addition to recent liner innovations such as Alpha SmartTemp® gel liners that reduce sweat and moisture.