Foot Orthotic Insoles Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Prefabricated and Customized), By Material (Thermoplastics, Ethyl-vinyl Acetate (EVA), Foam, Composite Carbon Fiber, and Others), By Application (Medical, Sports & Athletics, and Personal), By Age Group (Adults and Pediatrics), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Stores, and Online Stores), and Regional Forecast, 2022-2029

The global foot orthotic insoles market size was valued at USD 3.49 billion in 2021. The market is projected to grow from USD 3.93 billion in 2022 to USD 6.15 billion by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period. The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. Based on our analysis, the global insoles market exhibited a decline of -12.1% in 2020 as compared to 2019.

Foot orthotic insoles are medical devices that physicians prescribe to reduce pain and treat foot ailments. The increase in the prevalence of chronic disorders, such as diabetes, leading to diabetic foot ulcers and an increase in cases of other foot ailments have boosted the foot orthotic insoles market growth. However, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the market due to the lockdown, as retail stores faced disruption in their sales, and there was a decline in the number of visits to healthcare professionals.

Significant technological advancements in the orthotics market and robust clinical studies proving the efficacy of the insoles in various ailments favor the market growth. For instance, in 2021, Talita Cumi Ltd., in collaboration with Aetrex Worldwide Inc., initiated a comparative clinical trial to investigate the use of prefabricated orthotics in shoes, combined with the help of indoor comfort sandals with built-in arch support, to benefit the treatment of plantar fasciitis more than the sole use of prefabricated orthotics in shoes alone. Such research initiatives are further expected to drive market growth during the forecast period.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Cancellation of Orthotic Appointments Exerted a Negative Impact on Global Market

Major players operating in the market witnessed a drop in revenues of their orthotic business segments during the pandemic in FY 2020. However, the market witnessed a resurgence in the sales figures of foot orthotic insoles during the FY 2021. For example, the critical company of Hanger Inc. witnessed a decline in revenues in its business segments of product & services and patient care during FY 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. However, in FY 2021, the product & services and patient care segments of the company witnessed an increase in its revenue by 4.5% and 13.4%, respectively. Likewise, the bracing and support segment of the company Össur witnessed a rise in its revenues during FY 2021 compared to the same period in 2020. 

However, orthotic clinics with digital technologies such as 3D scanners and digital imaging could sustain their business during the pandemic. According to a survey conducted on orthotists and prosthetists during June - July 2020, 44.0% of prosthetists/orthotists used digital technology to provide safe care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the major e-commerce portals also helped customers purchase orthotic insoles without risking exposure to COVID-19.

LATEST TRENDS

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Increased Strategic Initiatives by Prominent Players to Drive Growth Trajectory

Over the years, the market witnessed numerous strategic market movements. As the prevalence of foot ailments increases and the number of patients suffering from this increases, the need for treatment devices is expected to become intense. This has led to the prominent players increasing their portfolios and expanding their business through mergers and acquisitions.

These strategies will help the companies to acquire innovative technologies such as high-frequency and shock-absorbing materials. Furthermore, the market is slowly moving toward providing customized support to their customers based on their problems and helping them achieve a better quality of life. For instance, in January 2021, Thuasne announced that they completed the acquisition of an U.S. based company Knit-Rite, a manufacturer of textiles for the medical markets and its Therafirm division. The acquisition would help the company enter into a new orthopedic prosthesis medical devices market. Such developments are anticipated to strongly contribute to the growth prospects of the market in the forecast period.

DRIVING FACTORS

Rising Prevalence of Chronic Foot Ailments with Favorable Reimbursement Policies to Drive Growth

It is determined that foot pain affects more than 30.0% of the general population. This pain can be caused by various medical conditions like diabetic foot ulcers, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, and arthritis. Thus, foot orthotic insoles are prescribed by physicians to treat these conditions. As per NCBI, in 2021, the annual prevalence of diabetic foot ulcers across the globe is between 9.1 to 26.1 million. It is further estimated that approximately 20% to 25% of the population with diabetes mellitus will develop a diabetic foot ulcer. The magnitude and incidence of diabetic foot ulcers are increasing rapidly worldwide since the increased incidence of diabetes reached an epidemic level. Hence, these aforementioned factors are crucial growth drivers for the global market.

Predominantly, the sedentary middle-aged and older adults are affected by plantar heel pain, and it is estimated that around 8.0% of all injuries are related to running. Hence, the growing incidence of the disorder will reflect a positive growth trajectory for the market. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), in 2018, more than 800,000 Americans younger than 65 years seek outpatient treatment for plantar fasciitis each year.

The surge in demand for customized orthotic insoles, coupled with a favorable reimbursement policy, is a significant driver for the market. The reimbursement of prosthetic and orthotic devices is applied when a registered physician provides consultation. Reimbursement includes an applicable fee, design, materials, measurements, fabrications, testing, fitting, and device training. Reimbursement also covers the repair and replacement of prosthetic and orthotic devices. Hence, the aforementioned factors are prominent drivers for the orthotic foot insoles market growth rate to flourish over the projection timeframe.   

Technological Advancements in Orthotic Foot Insoles to Augment Market Growth

One of the distinct factors anticipated to drive the growth is the technological advancements in orthotic foot insoles. Globally, it has been reported that people suffer from debilitating foot pain, which makes it difficult for them to accomplish daily activities like walking or climbing stairs. Thus, manufacturers are now focusing on the large-scale manufacturing and commercialization of technologically advanced orthotic foot insoles for their customers, which will ease their problems. Recently, the orthotic foot industry has witnessed various technological changes, which will boost the market in the future. For instance, in April 2021, Covestro and GeBioM mbH, based in Münster, expanded their orthopedic footwear cooperation to support custom insoles production using 3D printing. Stratasys Direct gives millions of new patients’ access to life-changing orthotics, offering much-needed improvements in mobility and pain relief. The use of advanced technology for 3D printed foot insoles enables the creation of complex geometries and includes varying features within a single device.

Furthermore, 3D footprinting techniques provide significant opportunities to improve the functional abilities and traditional manufacturing processes for custom-foot orthotics, thus, considered a massive technological advancement in this market. For instance, it is seen that each HP Multi Jet 3D printer can produce up to 21,000 foot-orthotic pairs every year. This indicates that every HP Multi Jet 3D printer installed will save approximately 40 tons of material waste per year vs. traditional CNC polypropylene milling. Therefore, incorporating such novel technology will firmly cost-effectively propel market expansion.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

High Costs of Custom Insoles with Limited Penetration Rate in Emerging Countries to Impede Market Growth

Despite a strong need for effective orthotic insoles, one of the most important limiting factors that restrain this market growth is the limited penetration rate of these products in the emerging regions. The demand for these insoles in lower-middle-income countries is limited due to lack of service capacity and funding shortage, inhibiting expansion. Below are the key demand and supply dynamics that have presented challenges to user access and sustainability of this market in lower-middle-income countries. Furthermore, clinical providers in LMICs do not have enough product options to meet the customer's needs. They do not allow flexible ordering from players in the regional market, which, as witnessed, is a result of a weak supply channel.

Moreover, the high cost of custom orthotic insoles is one of the major restraints contributing to the market growth. For instance, according to Podiatry Today, the typical cost of prescription custom foot orthotics ordered through a doctor ranges from USD 400 – USD 600. The overall cost of treatment varies from one doctor to the other doctor. Most podiatrists do not quote an actual fee; instead, they quote a price for an entire treatment program. The major factors mentioned above are responsible for the limited growth of this market, thereby restricting the overall market growth up to a certain extent.

SEGMENTATION

By Type Analysis

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Strong Demand for Customized Insoles to Lead to Segment’s Dominance in 2022-29

Based on type, the global market can be segmented into prefabricated and customized. The customized segment held a dominant share of the market in 2021. The segment dominated due to the rise in patients' preference for customized foot orthotic insoles as it matches comfort specifications. Furthermore, most orthotists also prescribe customized foot insoles to help in better clinical outcomes. Technological advancements, such as 3D foot scanners and molding clay, have made it easier for the manufacturers to provide customized foot insoles for their customers, thus, anticipating the segment's growth.

However, the prefabricated segment is anticipated to register a comparatively lower CAGR during the forecast period. Furthermore, the rise in awareness of the product benefits and the increasing geriatric population led to an increase in the foot orthotic insoles market share in terms of the overall orthotics market. The surge in the prevalence of arthritis and plantar fasciitis is likely to augment the segment's growth.

By Material Analysis

Easy Availability of Ethyl-vinyl Acetate Accounted for the Segment’s Highest Market Share in 2021

Based on material, the market is segmented into thermoplastics, Ethyl-vinyl Acetate (EVA), foam, composite carbon fiber, and others. The EVA segment accounts for the maximum portion of the market. The dominance can be attributed to the easy availability of EVA and a comparatively lower price than foam-based foot insoles.

The thermoplastics segment is the second largest segment of this market. The rising adoption of thermoplastic material for the production of foot orthotic insoles significantly reduces plantar pressure. Hence, the material thermoplastics is the choice for the manufacturers due to its enhanced benefits. The rise in adoption of these insoles for sports and athletic activities has increased the demand for effective shock-absorbing insoles materials. As foam-based foot orthotic insoles, including polyethylene foams insoles, offer excellent shock absorption, they are gradually gaining much traction, favoring the foam segment's expansion.

The composite carbon fiber segment holds a small share of the market. Athletes mostly use these insoles as the material claims to store the energy and direct it toward the ground, increasing the speed while improving the energy efficiency. Thus, this helps an athlete propel in any direction. This is one of the reasons for manufacturers to use this material for the production of orthotic insoles.

By Application Analysis

Strong Prescriptions of Orthotics by Medical Professionals to Lead to Segment’s Robust Market Share

Based on application, the market is segmented into medical, sports & athletics, and personal. The medical segment holds the largest share in this segment. A growing number of clinical evidence indicates that foot orthotic insoles' efficacy in reducing pain in various diseases and disorders is the primary reason for the prominent share of the medical segment. For instance, according to the Archives of Physical Medicine Journal published article Rehabilitation, prescription shoe orthotics significantly improved back pain and dysfunction.

Many studies indicating the effectiveness of foot orthotic insoles are expected to favor its adoption for medical purposes. The sports and athletics segment holds the second largest share and is expected to grow, reflecting a robust CAGR during the forecast period. Increasing usage of shock-absorbing foot insoles to prevent injuries during sports and vigorous physical activities is expected to fuel the market's growth. People have become more conscious of healthy lifestyles that involve physical activities such as running, walking, and sports. Over-the-counter foot insoles can be easily attached to footwear. Also, many manufacturers are offering footwear solutions with non-removable foot orthotic insoles. This is poised to increase the demand for foot orthotics in sports and athletics. 

The personal segment is likely to propel due to people's adoption of a healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, the increasing availability of foot insoles for formal and fashion wear can also be the reason for the growth of this segment.

By Age Group Analysis

Strong Adult Patient Populace Contributed to Segment’s Highest CAGR in 2021

Based on age group, the market is segmented into adults and pediatrics. The adults segment is anticipated to dominate the market. The rise in prevalence of diabetes, arthritis, chronic pain, and common problems associated with old age is the major reason contributing to the product adoption among adults across the globe. For example, according to the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance, in 2021, globally, there will be an estimated 242 million people suffering from symptomatic and activity-limiting osteoarthritis. Thus, the increasing prevalence of arthritis and foot & ankle pain is likely to surge the demand for foot insoles amongst the rising geriatric adult population.

However, the rise in the number of cases of congenital foot deformities and the increase in the number of foot insoles specially designed for pediatrics, such as Formthotics, are expected to provide an impetus to the growth of the pediatric segment.

By Distribution Channel Analysis

Strong Volumes of Orthotic Insoles Attributed to Hospital Pharmacies to Contribute to Segment’s Peak Position

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into hospital pharmacies, retail stores, and online stores. The hospital pharmacies segment dominates the market and is projected to witness growth throughout the forecast period. The growth can be attributed to favorable health reimbursements for prescribed products. Furthermore, increasing awareness and demand for customized products is a key reason attributable to the growth of hospital pharmacies. 

The retail store segment accounts for the second-largest share. Major players in this market are expanding their global footprint by launching new retail stores across the globe, thus, allowing the expansion of the retail store segment. The online store segment is expected to witness positive growth due to the rapid adoption of over-the-counter orthotics and the increasing usage of e-commerce portals.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

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Based on region, the global market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the rest of the world.

The market size in North America stood at USD 1.47 billion in 2021, and is expected to account for a dominant share of the global market during the forecast period. North America dominates the global market due to rapid adoption of 3D printers to produce customized orthotic insoles. Furthermore, the rise in the number of podiatric procedures and the increase in the number of podiatrists and orthotists are driving the growth of this region's market.  

The Europe market is expected to be the second-largest market. The growth can be attributed to favorable reimbursement policies and the increasing efforts by the government to increase awareness among people about foot care. For instance, the BMJ Open journal published a cross-sectional survey of orthotic services; around USD 36.2 million were spent in the U.K. from 2015 to 2016 on orthotic products. Thus, increasing expenditure on orthotic services and products is likely to favor the market in Europe.

The Asia Pacific market is expected to grow remarkably in the forecast period due to the increase in the geriatric population. It is one of the important reasons for adopting these insoles. The rest of the world holds a comparatively lesser share in the market. Still, it is expected to witness growth due to the improvement of healthcare expenditure and rising awareness amongst the people of the developing countries in these regions.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Robust Portfolio of Hanger Inc. and Implus LLC to Aid these Companies to Market Dominance

The global market size is highly fragmented in the competition landscape due to various national and international players. However, few companies, such as Hanger Inc., Implus LLC, and Footbalance Systems Ltd., hold a leading position due to their strong brand presence, large customer base, strong network with healthcare professionals, and diversified product offerings. For example, Implus LLC has over 80,000 retail outlets across the globe. Thus, a vast distribution network of the company is expected to strengthen the company’s position and increase its market revenue.

Other vital players, such as Thuasne, Foot Science International, and Aetrex Worldwide Inc., are gradually establishing a market position in the global market due to their product offerings and strategic collaborations to expand their operations. Furthermore, Superfeet Worldwide, Bauerfeind AG, and Tynor Orthotics Pvt. Ltd are new to the global market, which are slowly gaining a competitive advantage due to the adoption of modern technologies and securing funds from investors to expand their production capabilities. 

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Implus Footcare LLC (U.S.)


• Hanger Inc. (U.S.)


• Aetrex Worldwide, Inc. (U.S.)


• Footbalance System Ltd. (Finland)


• Tynor (India)


• Digital Orthotics Laboratories Australia Pty Ltd. (Australia)


• Thuasne (France)


• Foot Science International (New Zealand)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• February 2022: Digital Orthotics Laboratories Australia Pty Ltd. launched a new DOLA iPhone scanning feature. The customer can scan, prescribe, and order orthotics using iPhone.


• November 2021: Spenco, the brand under Implus Footcare LLC, launched Propel and Propel + Carbon insoles that are designed to supercharge running shoes with the latest running technology.

REPORT COVERAGE

An Infographic Representation of Foot Orthotic Insoles Market

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The research report provides a detailed analysis of the market. The global foot orthotic insoles market analysis focuses on key aspects such as market dynamics, key industry developments, key startups and funding overview, technological advancements, pricing analysis, key players, and COVID-19 pandemic impact on the market. Besides this, the report offers insights into the market trends and highlights key industry dynamics. In addition to the aforementioned factors, the report encompasses several factors and market statistics that have contributed to the growth of the global market in recent years.

Report Scope & Segmentation