Comparative Efficacy of 3D-Printed Insoles in Managing Common Foot Conditions: A Review

Medical orthotic insoles are commonly used to support the ankle and foot while standing and walking to enhance gait mechanics and reduce foot discomfort. Medical orthotic insoles are especially effective in addressing congenital or acquired orthopedic issues and degenerative diseases. Among the various therapeutic options, three-dimensional (3D)-printed insoles have emerged as a promising alternative due to their potential for customization and improved performance compared to traditional insoles. This review investigated the effectiveness of 3D-printed insoles in managing 3 common foot conditions: flexible flatfoot, diabetic foot ulcers, and plantar fasciitis. A literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library databases. Studies comparing traditional insoles or barefoot conditions with 3D-printed insoles were included; 4 studies met the eligibility criteria. The findings revealed that patients with flexible flatfoot, diabetic foot ulcers, and plantar fasciitis reported greater comfort with 3D-printed insoles compared to traditional insoles. Additionally, 3D-printed insoles provided more effective pressure relief in affected foot areas. These results highlight the therapeutic potential of 3D-printed insoles in improving foot health and gait efficiency. 3D printing technology has the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing of medical orthotic insoles by enabling personalized, efficient, and data-driven treatments. However, practical challenges, including high costs, material limitations, and the need for specialized expertise and regulatory frameworks, must be addressed to facilitate its widespread adoption. This review aimed to analyze the role of 3D printing in manufacturing medical orthotic insoles, focusing on its therapeutic potential and the need for further research to validate its efficacy.