2024 Foot Pain
Trends Report
Survey Reveals the Latest on
Foot Pain in America
Download the full report
Medically reviewed on Mar 27, 2024
Introduction
Our feet are the foundation of every step we take—and it can get painful, fast. In fact, we found that in the United States, an estimated 80% of the population experiences foot pain. With these kinds of numbers, we believe it’s crucial to routinely highlight data and insights on foot pain trends in America.
At KURU Footwear, we also believe health starts from the ground up. We know that creating the best shoes for foot pain relief begins with a deep understanding of foot anatomy, common foot problems, and Americans’ foot health habits. That’s why we’re committed to annually reporting the latest trends, data, and insights on foot health in the US.
This knowledge allows us to continue to engineer footwear that promotes optimal foot health, so our customers can live the life they love.
In this condensed report, we’ll highlight key survey findings and relevant data, offering a glimpse into the current state of foot pain in America.
Methodology
The data and insights below have been gathered from a variety of sources, including public, private, and government entities, market research companies, and medical studies. We include references both for data that is publicly accessible and that which is proprietary information.
To learn more about our products, please visit our website at www.kurufootwear.com.
To learn more about our products, please visit our website at www.kurufootwear.com.
The 2024 survey data presented is based on a total sample size of 2,500 (of 3,085) American adult public respondents, aged 18 years and older, who reported experiencing foot pain within the last 12 months (November 2022–October 2023). The survey has been conducted with a margin of error of +/- 2% and a confidence level of 99%. These results provide a statistically significant representation of the population surveyed.
Common Areas of Foot Pain
Our extensive research on various types of foot pain uncovered insightful data regarding prevalent pain points and associated conditions. Understanding these common areas of foot pain is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
Underneath the Arch
Under the Heel
At the Ankle
At the Ball of the Foot
Some Toes
Top of the Foot
All the toes
Insights from Medical Professionals
According to Dr. Paul Kim from Golden State Orthopedics and Spine:
“The three most common foot conditions I encounter are plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and metatarsalgia. These conditions often stem from a combination of overuse, improper footwear, and biomechanical imbalances.”
Foot pain often extends beyond the feet, impacting other areas of the body. Our survey revealed that individuals suffering from foot pain frequently experience back, knee, and hip pain, highlighting the interconnected nature of our bodies.
Dig deeper into our Common Areas of Foot Pain data:
Heel Pain Relief
Superior cushion and support for those seeking to live life to the fullest.
Prevalence of Foot Pain
The 2014 report by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) marked a pivotal moment in grasping how widespread foot pain was among Americans. It uncovered that an overwhelming 77% had dealt with foot pain at some stage, yet a significant number hadn’t sought professional help. This finding was instrumental in highlighting the critical nature of foot health, emphasizing the need for appropriate footwear, lifestyle adjustments, and medical care when needed.
By 2024, the situation has worsened. Today, 81% of Americans report foot pain, a significant increase over the past decade. This rise can be attributed to various factors, including lifestyle changes, workplace factors, and a growing aging population, who are more prone to conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and circulatory issues that lead to foot problems. Some typical risk factors for foot pain encompass obesity, arthritis, flat feet, engaging in high-impact physical activities, and wearing ill-fitting footwear.
Additionally, workplace factors and lifestyle changes—including prolonged periods of standing or walking on hard surfaces and increased sedentary behavior due to technology use—contribute significantly to foot pain. Prolonged sitting weakens foot muscles and excess weight adds strain.
There has also been an increase in awareness and reporting of foot health issues, likely contributing to the higher reported prevalence. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 adults (21%) have endured foot discomfort for a duration spanning 1 to 5 years and 33% of those experiencing pain report related health problems in their back, knees, and hips.
Dig deeper into our Prevalence of Foot Pain data:
Importance of Self-Assessment
The importance of self-assessment in managing foot pain is becoming increasingly prominent, underscored by the advent and utilization of specialized apps and telehealth services.
These technological advancements facilitate proactive health monitoring, enabling individuals to identify symptoms early on and manage their foot health more effectively. According to our study and research:
- 26% self-assessing foot pain in 2024, down from 41% in 2023
- Specialized apps for foot pain assessment play a crucial role in this shift, offering tools for self-monitoring that can alert users to potential issues before they become severe.
Ready to prioritize your foot health? Start by taking our self-assessment at our full report below!
Discover The Perfect Shoe For You.
Mental Health and Foot Pain
The interconnection between mental health and foot pain is gaining recognition within healthcare. Holistic and alternative treatment methods are becoming more mainstream, reflecting a shift towards integrative health practices that consider emotional and psychological factors alongside physical symptoms.
Survey data from 2023 and 2024 show a significant shift in how individuals perceive foot pain’s impact on their lives. In 2023, while over 95% of respondents noted some level of influence of foot pain on their daily activities, only about 7.7% considered their foot pain as debilitating. By contrast, the 2024 survey reveals a dramatic increase in this regard, with nearly half of the respondents (47%) now describing their foot pain as debilitating.
This substantial change suggests either a surge in the severity of foot pain experienced by individuals or a shift in how respondents perceive and report the impact of foot pain on their daily lives. 3 out of 5 survey respondents (61%) experience anxiety or stress directly due to their foot pain. This finding reinforces the critical connection between mental health and foot pain, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive approaches addressing both aspects in the management of foot-related discomfort.
Dig deeper into our Mental Health and Foot Pain data:
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( 4.2 )
FLUX
$145
Fly through your workout with an energizing bounce and heel-hugging technology. FLUX features supercritical EVA foam, which lasts up to 3X longer and delivers up to 15% more bounce for better energy return. Plus, a sock-like fit and zones of stretch and support create the perfect balance of structure and breathability.
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QUANTUM 2.0
$165.00
Our best got better. As we celebrate 10 years of fan-favorite QUANTUM, we bring you the next generation of heel pain relief: QUANTUM 2.0. This premium walking shoe brings you our most cushioned midsole yet, a wider base with a wide toe box, and upgraded KURUSOLE heel support for ultimate foot pain relief.
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( 4.4 )
ATOM
$160
Finally, an athletic sneaker with built-in support and superior heel cushioning. The sleek ATOM combines airy mesh uppers, our revolutionary heel-hugging technology, and a thick KURUCLOUD midsole for maximum comfort in every step.
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Foot Pain & Mobility
Recent research has highlighted the growing importance of addressing the relationship between foot pain and mobility in pain management. There is an increasing focus on developing solutions that not only alleviate pain but also promote mobility and support an active lifestyle. This emphasis has led to a surge in customized orthotic solutions tailored to individuals’ specific mobility needs, ensuring greater effectiveness and comfort.
Survey data from 2023 and 2024 reveals significant shifts in how foot pain affects daily activities:
Walking: While walking remained the most affected activity in both years, there was a decrease from 78% in 2023 to 66% in 2024. This suggests potential improvements in managing foot pain during walking or pain severity during this activity.
Exercising: Foot pain’s impact on exercising significantly decreased from 54% in 2023 to 38% in 2024, indicating potentially better pain management strategies during exercise or a shift in the types of exercises performed by individuals with foot pain.
Household Chores: Household chores remained among the top three activities affected by foot pain, with a slight increase from 25% in 2023 to 27% in 2024. This could reflect the continuous and often unavoidable nature of these tasks, making them more susceptible to the impacts of foot pain.
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Exercising
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Household Chores
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Occupation Demands
These changes emphasize the evolving dynamics of how foot pain influences daily mobility and activities, reinforcing the importance of addressing foot pain to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Dig deeper into our Foot Pain and Mobility Data:
Heel Pain Relief
Superior cushion and support for those seeking to live life to the fullest.
Foot Pain Diagnosis and Treatment
The approach to diagnosing and treating foot pain has undergone significant changes, influenced by advancements in technology and shifts in treatment preferences.
The integration of AI and machine learning has revolutionized the accuracy of diagnoses, enabling personalized treatment plans and earlier interventions. Concurrently, the development of therapeutic footwear, incorporating specially engineered materials and designs, represents a shift toward a more technologically sophisticated, data-driven approach in foot healthcare, emphasizing patient-centric care.The treatment landscape for foot pain has evolved, with survey data from 2023 and 2024 highlighting changing preferences.
In 2024, the predominant treatments were over-the-counter medication (77%), ice (74%), stretching exercises (73%), and massage (71%). This marks a departure from 2023, where stretching exercises led (79%), followed by ice, over-the-counter medication, and orthotics/inserts.
We observed a decrease in self-diagnosis among those without a formal diagnosis, from 41% in 2023 to 26% in 2024. Digital platforms remained popular for self-diagnosis, though there was a slight shift towards more reliance on personal networks.
The percentage of adults with foot pain receiving a formal diagnosis decreased as well. 59% received a formal diagnosis in 2023 compared to 37% in 2024. The methods of diagnosis also diversified in 2024, reflecting a broader approach to diagnosing foot conditions.
There was a significant increase in respondents reporting recent foot pain. 64% of people reported pain within 0-2 months in 2024, compared to 37% in 2023. Long-term pain reporting (10+ years) decreased, indicating a possible reduction in chronic cases. The reported causes of foot pain also shifted in 2024, with nearly half attributing their pain to an injury, contrasting with 2023 where the majority did not.
These findings illuminate a dynamic landscape in the experience, treatment, and diagnosis of foot pain, underscored by technological advancements, changing treatment efficacy perceptions, and evolving healthcare-seeking behaviors.
Dig deeper into our Foot Pain Diagnosis and Treatment data:
Advancing Foot Health
The advancement of foot health is increasingly characterized by a heightened focus on public education, aimed at enhancing awareness about preventive practices and the early detection of foot-related issues.
This educational push is complemented by ongoing research dedicated to uncovering new methods for pain relief and deepening the understanding of various foot health conditions. Such efforts are instrumental in developing more effective treatments.
This evolving trend underscores a proactive stance in the realm of foot health, where prevention is given as much importance as treatment, signaling a comprehensive approach to maintaining and improving foot health in the broader population.
Dig deeper into our Foot Pain Diagnosis and Treatment data:
Heel Pain Relief
Superior cushion and support for those seeking to live life to the fullest.
Booming Foot Care Market
The foot care market is experiencing a boom, driven by increasing public awareness and investment in foot health. Recent market analyses predict the sector’s value, which was $3.3 billion in 2022, to nearly double to $6.9 billion by 2032.
This growth is further propelled by the influence of e-commerce, which has revolutionized the way consumers access and purchase foot care products, offering convenience, a wider selection, and the benefits of customer reviews and personalized recommendations.
Additionally, there’s a noticeable shift towards natural and organic foot care products, as consumers increasingly opt for environmentally friendly and skin-friendly alternatives.
Moreover, the popularity of over-the-counter (OTC) foot care products is soaring, as they offer easy, accessible, and cost-effective solutions for common foot ailments, reflecting a trend towards self-managed foot health care.
Dig deeper into our Booming Foot Care Market data:
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ATOM
$145
Finally, an athletic sneaker with built-in support and superior heel cushioning. The sleek ATOM combines airy mesh uppers, our revolutionary heel-hugging technology, and a thick KURUCLOUD midsole for maximum comfort in every step.
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2.0
( 4.1 )
QUANTUM 2.0
$165
Our best got better. As we celebrate 10 years of fan-favorite QUANTUM, we bring you the next generation of heel pain relief: QUANTUM 2.0. This premium walking shoe brings you our most cushioned midsole yet, a wider base with a wide toe box, and upgraded KURUSOLE heel support for ultimate foot pain relief.
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( 4.6 )
FLEX Via
$130
Feel the flex. It’s the wear-everywhere shoe, built with our most flexible outsole and a clean, minimalist aesthetic. FLEX Via flexes to fit your life for the utmost versatility—with any outfit, on every human. Flex away foot pain with effortless roll through, an adjustable fit, and unparalleled heel support.
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Cost of Foot Pain
The financial implications of foot pain extend significantly beyond the direct costs of medical treatment, encapsulating a broad spectrum of economic burdens on both individuals and society. These costs encompass direct medical expenses, such as doctor’s appointments, diagnostic procedures, and medications, as well as indirect costs like lost workdays and diminished productivity.
On a societal level, the aggregate expense related to foot pain treatment represents a significant strain on healthcare systems, contributing to the rising overall healthcare costs.
The data reveals that 75% of adults experiencing foot pain incur monthly treatment expenses, with a significant portion spending over $250.
The financial implications of foot pain extend significantly beyond the direct costs of medical treatment, encapsulating a broad spectrum of economic burdens on both individuals and society. These costs encompass direct medical expenses, such as doctor’s appointments, diagnostic procedures, and medications, as well as indirect costs like lost workdays and diminished productivity.
On a societal level, the aggregate expense related to foot pain treatment represents a significant strain on healthcare systems, contributing to the rising overall healthcare costs.
The data reveals that 75% of adults experiencing foot pain incur monthly treatment expenses, with a significant portion spending over $250.
The broader economic impact is magnified by indirect costs, including lost wages and reduced productivity, which not only affect individuals but also businesses and the economy at large. Chronic pain management and long-term disability associated with foot pain can perpetuate financial strain through continuous medical costs and potential loss of income.
Dig deeper into our Cost of Foot Pain data:
Technological Innovation in Foot Health
Technological innovation in foot health is advancing rapidly, driven by a range of cutting-edge developments. Wearable technology, such as smart insoles and socks, is revolutionizing the way foot health is monitored, offering detailed insights into walking patterns and early detection of potential issues.
- Virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a valuable tool in foot pain management, providing immersive experiences for pain distraction and tailored rehabilitation exercises.
- Advanced imaging technologies, including 3D printing, are transforming the production of custom orthotics, offering personalized support and pain relief.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) is enhancing the accuracy of diagnosing foot conditions through detailed analysis of medical images and predictive analytics.
- Telemedicine is making foot care more accessible and convenient, especially for those with mobility challenges or living in remote areas.
- Minimally invasive procedures aided by robotic technology are improving precision in foot surgeries and rehabilitation.
- Regenerative medicine, particularly stem cell therapy, is offering new avenues for treating foot injuries and chronic conditions, focusing on enhancing the body’s natural healing processes.
These innovations collectively signify a significant leap forward in foot health care, promising improved patient outcomes and more efficient healthcare delivery.
Dig deeper into our Technological Innovation in Foot Health data:
Conclusion
As we have observed in our latest study and in researching current trends, it’s evident that foot pain continues to be a significant health concern in America, with an array of factors contributing to its sustained prevalence.
Individuals, however, have the power to proactively maintain their foot health. Engaging in regular exercise, choosing suitable footwear, and incorporating stretching into their daily routine remain key strategies.
Healthcare providers are increasingly pivotal in this landscape.
Their role in early detection and effective treatment of foot-related conditions, alongside patient education on proper foot care and injury prevention, is more crucial than ever.
As we move forward, the collaboration between individuals and healthcare professionals is essential in addressing the persistent issue of foot pain in America. Emphasizing foot health, along with preventive and therapeutic measures, is vital. This approach not only promises enhanced comfort and mobility for individuals but also contributes to their overall well-being and quality of life, reflecting a continued commitment to addressing this widespread health concern.
View Previous Years’ Reports
Explore our archive of previous years’ trend reports to gain valuable insights into past consumer behaviors, industry developments, and emerging patterns.
