OTWorld Leipzig 2026

Overview

OTWorld Leipzig 2026 is the world's leading international trade fair and World Congress for prosthetics, orthotics, orthopedic footwear technology, compression therapy, and rehabilitation technology. Held biennially at Messe Leipzig since 1973, the 2026 edition runs May 19–22 and marks the event's 50th anniversary under the motto 'You make the difference.' Over 570 exhibitors from more than 40 countries will showcase world premieres and innovations across three exhibition halls, with the rehabilitation technology sector reaching its largest-ever presence at over 120 exhibitors. The event draws more than 20,000 visitors from over 90 countries, with approximately two-thirds of attendees traveling from outside Germany. A defining feature of OTWorld 2026 is its unique combination of a major international trade show with a full-scale World Congress. The congress features over 300 speakers from more than 30 countries, approximately 100 hours of scientific programming, 30 international symposia, 35 workshops, and around 180 lectures and poster presentations. Congress Presidents Dr. Doris Maier and Thomas Munsch lead a 23-member interdisciplinary committee focused on three thematic pillars: rehabilitation, integrative care, and training. New in 2026 is AI-based live translation in German and English, accessible via smartphone and headphones, marking a significant step toward greater internationalisation. A dedicated OTWorld.3D and OTWorld.education and research exhibition area spotlights the latest solutions in 3D scanning, additive manufacturing, and AI-supported processes relevant to orthopaedic device production. OTWorld 2026 features several new program areas including a special exhibition on living with neurological conditions, the new 'therapie meets OTWorld' platform for physiotherapists and occupational therapists, and an expanded OTWorld.rehab-technology section. The event also includes the Youth.Academy TO for trainees and students, a Start-Up Zone, and dedicated social and networking events. Additive manufacturing plays a growing role at OTWorld, with digital fabrication and 3D printing of prosthetic and orthotic components featured prominently across exhibitor booths and congress sessions.

Key Strengths

• ✓World's largest orthopaedic treatment and care event with 570+ exhibitors from 40+ countries celebrating its 50th anniversary
• ✓100-hour World Congress with 300+ speakers, AI live translation, and CEU credits for multiple professional groups
• ✓Dedicated OTWorld.3D exhibition area showcasing 3D scanning, additive manufacturing, and AI in orthopaedic device production
• ✓Unique combination of trade show and world congress in one venue, covering the full care and manufacturing ecosystem
• ✓Attracts 20,000+ visitors from 90+ countries with two-thirds of attendees coming from outside Germany