Another year has passed, bringing new insights! At Forward Motion Medical, we’ve been analyzing data and trends from 2024 to provide a comprehensive look at the current state of the Custom Orthotics and AFO manufacturing industry. We’re excited to share valuable insights we’ve gained over the past year!
As we step into the new year, we’ve analyzed data from 2024 and compiled the results. Compared to the 2023 review, many aspects have evolved and we are excited to share these findings with you.
** Note: The data presented in this article is based on a sample of customers from different orthotic labs around the USA, providing an extrapolated analysis of the podiatry industry.
Percentage of Doctors Prescribing Custom Orthotics vs Prefabricated
When analyzing the devices doctors use to treat patients, the majority still rely exclusively on custom orthotics (69.3%). We observed a slight decline in doctors using only prefabricated orthotics (13%) and a modest increase in those prescribing both custom and prefabricated devices, rising to 17.7% from 14% last year.
If you primarily rely on one type of device, consider incorporating alternatives into your practice. Whether it’s introducing custom orthotics, JM prefabricated devices, or AFO braces, diversifying your approach ensures you can address a wider range of patient needs with tailored, effective solutions.
As a full service custom orthotics lab, Forward Motion offers products across all three categories: custom orthotics, prefabricated orthotics, and custom AFO braces. To learn more about our complete product line, including both prefabricated and custom solutions, be sure to explore our product catalog.
Percentage of Orders Using Digital vs. Non-Digital Casting Methods
In 2024, casting methods remained consistent, with 89% of orders submitted digitally and 11% still using traditional casting methods like impression foam boxes and plaster casts. However, a notable shift is occurring as doctors transition away from the Structure 3D scanner to using built-in iOS 3D scanning.
The built-in face recognition software in iOS devices now enables seamless 3D scanning, reducing the need for external scanner hardware and making digital submissions even more accessible. We expect the number of foam boxes and plaster casting will continue to shrink as advancements in technology improve and become more accurate.
Breakdown of Types of AFO Braces Doctors Ordered
AFO brace orders in 2024 showed significant changes compared to the previous year. While the top 3 Boss braces—Gauntlet, Balance and Controller—maintained their dominance, we noticed doctors prescribed a broader range of options. Notably, the Boss Articulated Gauntlet overtook the Foot Drop Brace for fourth place, and Tamarack Braces saw increased use.
Since 2018, Forward Motion has been handcrafting 100% custom AFOs, tailored to each patient's unique needs. We know that AFOs can be complex, but our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. From using our Forward Motion app to scan the leg, selecting the right settings, and navigating the L-codes or billing process, we're committed to helping you optimize patient care and reimbursement.
Breakdown of Types of Custom Orthotics Doctors Ordered
Custom orthotics offer full customization, but preset orthotic templates are categorized based on common use cases. In 2024, the distribution of these categories remained consistent. Athletic and Functional orthotics dominated 76% of all prescriptions. Accommodative orthotics ranked third at 11%, while Diabetic and Dress orthotics together made up about 9%. Specialty and Children’s orthotics slightly declined to 3% of all orders.
Breakdown of Top Cover Material Prescriptions
The ratio of top cover materials prescribed remained largely unchanged from 2023. Neoprene continued to be the most common material prescribed this year, closely followed by Marine-grade Vinyl. Perforated Ucolite increased in popularity, matching EVA at 12%, while Microsilver accounted for 7% of prescriptions.
Selecting the right top cover material is essential to ensuring patient comfort and compliance. Each material has different properties and benefits making it important for doctors to choose a top cover that aligns with each patient’s unique lifestyle and activity levels.
Breakdown of Shell Rigidities in Prescriptions
Shell Rigidity and type of orthotic shell are critical factors when it comes to prescribing custom orthotics. Rigidity prescription ratios remained consistent with the previous year with Semi-Rigid Performance RX leading at 46% of all orthotic orders. About 22% of all orders featured PRX Graphite, a blend of Performance RX and carbon fiber.
If you’re still using older materials like polypropylene, cork or EVA in your orthotics, consider trying Forward Motion’s proprietary PRX orthotic shells. These advanced shells are thinner and stronger than traditional thermoplastics and can be customized to different rigidity levels. Plus, every shell comes with a lifetime guarantee against losing its shape or breaking. Contact us today to request a free pair to experience the difference yourself.
Breakdown of Top Cover Lengths in Prescriptions
Top cover length preferences remained steady in 2024. Full-length top covers continued to dominate, accounting for over 87% of orders. Approximately 8% of orders were for shell-length covers, while 5% opted for sulcus-length covers.
Conclusion
We continue to see the podiatric industry experience stable growth, especially with the increased demand for custom orthotics. Custom orthotics remain an essential component of a successful practice as the need for high-quality products to treat patients reaches an all time high. There is also high growth potential when it comes to utilizing AFO braces as a treatment option. By leveraging these insights, practitioners can continue to thrive and deliver exceptional care in an increasingly competitive industry.
Your patients deserve the best! As a leading manufacturer of custom orthotics and AFO braces for doctors in the United States, Forward Motion delivers thinner, lighter, and more advanced orthotics and AFOs, offering unmatched comfort and faster fabrication times.
We partner with you to design ultra-thin, custom-made support that your patients will love! Our 3D scanning technology ensures the entire process of ordering custom orthotics is easy and stress-free. From exceptional turnaround times and high-quality devices, Forward Motion is here to help you proivde the best care. Try Forward Motion today!
