Orthopedic Braces and Support Market - By Category (Lower Body Extremities, Upper Body Extremities, Spine and Back), Type (Soft, Rigid, Hinged), Application (Ligament Injury, Osteoarthritis), Patient, Distribution Channel – Global Forecast 2024 – 2032

Orthopedic Braces and Support Market Size

Orthopedic Braces and Support Market size was valued at around USD 4 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2024 to 2032. The increasing prevalence of orthopedic diseases and disorders, growing number of road accidents and sport-related injuries and rising public awareness pertaining to preventive care are some of the key factors driving the market growth.
 

The global population is aging, leading to a higher incidence of musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, and ligament injuries. For instance, according to the World Health Organization, as of 2022, approximately 1.71 billion people worldwide were affected by musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions necessitate ongoing management and support, with orthopedic braces playing a crucial role in improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life.
 

Moreover, participation in sports and physical activities, while promoting a healthy lifestyle, also increases the risk of orthopedic injuries. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often require orthopedic braces for injury prevention, stabilization during recovery, and support during strenuous activities. Therefore, the significant disease burden and the high prevalence of related disorders are anticipated to propel the market expansion.
 

Orthopedic braces and supports are medical aids designed to provide support, stability, and alignment to the musculoskeletal system. These devices are typically worn externally and are designed to support or immobilize specific joints or body parts, such as the spine, knees, ankles, wrists, and elbows. They aim to reduce pain, enhance mobility, prevent further injury, and aid in the healing process.
 

Orthopedic Braces and Support Market Trends

Technological advancements in orthopedic braces and support have played a pivotal role in shaping their evolution and widespread adoption in the market.
 

• Advanced technologies allow for the customization and personalization of orthopedic braces to meet the specific needs of individual patients. 3D scanning, computer-aided design (CAD), and additive manufacturing enable the creation of braces that conform precisely to a patient's anatomy, improving comfort and efficacy.
   
• Moreover, advanced biomechanical studies and computational modeling contribute to the design of orthopedic braces that mimic natural joint movements. This biomechanical optimization enhances the functionality of braces, providing support while allowing for a more natural range of motion.
   
• For instance, in January 2024, Enovis‘ DJO announced the launch of its DonJoy Roam OA knee brace for osteoarthritis or other knee pain and instability. Roam OA incorporate unloader technology that unloads the pressure of unicompartmental osteoarthritis and shifts weight away from the affected knee to relieve pain, improve stability, and help improve mobility dynamically.
   
• Furthermore, the integration of smart technologies into orthopedic braces has transformed the market. Smart braces may include sensors, accelerometers, and other electronic components to monitor biomechanics, track patient movement, and provide real-time data. This data can be valuable for healthcare professionals in assessing patient progress and optimizing treatment plans.

Orthopedic Braces and Support Market Analysis

The market by category is segmented into lower body extremities, spine and back, and upper body extremities. The lower body extremities segment accounted for 54.4% business share in 2023 and is anticipated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.­
 

• The prevalence of orthopedic conditions affecting the lower body extremities, including the knees, ankles, and feet, is substantial. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, meniscus tears, and ankle instability drive the demand for orthopedic braces designed for lower limb support. According to the World Health Organization, in 2021, 18 million people worldwide were living with rheumatoid arthritis. Approximately 70% of individuals affected by rheumatoid arthritis are women, and 55% are older than 55 years.
   
• Moreover, individuals undergoing lower limb surgeries, such as knee or ankle surgeries, require post-operative support for proper healing and rehabilitation. Orthopedic braces designed for lower extremities play a crucial role in providing the necessary support, reducing strain, and facilitating a smoother recovery process. This adaptability contributes to the widespread adoption of orthopedic braces and orthopedic support systems.

The orthopedic braces and support market by type is categorized into soft, rigid, and hinged. The soft orthopedic braces and support segment accounted for around USD 2.6 billion in revenue size in 2023.
 

• Soft orthopedic braces and support prioritize comfort and flexibility, providing individuals with a less restrictive alternative to rigid braces. The lightweight and pliable nature of these braces make them suitable for everyday use, promoting better patient compliance. These braces and supports are often more cost-effective compared to rigid braces. The affordable price point makes them accessible to a broader demographic, allowing individuals to acquire the necessary support without a significant financial burden.
   
• Additionally, soft braces and supports are commonly employed for the management of minor sprains, strains, and muscle injuries. They offer gentle compression and support, aiding in the recovery process without hindering natural movement. These are suitable for conditions such as arthritis, where joint stability and support are essential. They provide mild compression and stabilization for joints affected by arthritis, helping manage pain and improve mobility.
   

The orthopedic braces and support market by application is categorized into ligament injury, osteoarthritis, post-operative rehabilitation, preventive care, compression therapy, and other applications. The ligament injury segment accounted for around USD 1.2 billion in revenue size in 2023.
 

• Individuals recovering from ligament injuries often require external support during the rehabilitation process. Orthopedic braces designed for ligament injuries provide stability and aid in preventing further strain on the injured ligament. ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) emerges as a focal point in the orthopedic landscape, being the most frequently injured ligament in the knee and constituting nearly half of all knee injuries.
   
• For instance, according to an article published by Medscape, in 2022, there were approximately 100,000 to 200,000 ACL ruptures per year in the U.S. alone. Such statistics signify the considerable demand for medical interventions, including surgical procedures, to address ACL injuries and highlight the role of orthopedic braces and supports in post-surgical recovery
   
• Moreover, braces and supports for ligament injuries often feature adjustable compression levels. This allows individuals to customize the amount of compression based on their comfort and the severity of the injury. Controlled compression aids in reducing swelling and promoting better circulation.
   

The orthopedic braces and support market by patient is categorized into adult and pediatric. The adult segment is projected to reach more than USD 5.9 billion by 2032.
 

• The dominance of the adult segment is closely linked to the higher prevalence of orthopedic conditions in the adult demographic. Musculoskeletal issues, such as arthritis, joint pain, and injuries, become more prevalent with age, necessitating the use of orthopedic braces for support and management. According to the U.K. Health Security Agency, in 2019, arthritis and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect over 17 million people across the U.K., causing pain, disability, fatigue and often anxiety, depression or social isolation.
   
• Moreover, The occupational aspect plays a crucial role in the adult segment's dominance. Professionals engaged in physically demanding occupations or those exposed to repetitive movements may experience musculoskeletal strain, leading to the utilization of orthopedic braces for relief and support.

The orthopedic braces and support market by distribution channel is categorized into hospitals, orthopedic centers, pharmacies and retailers, e-commerce platforms, and other distribution channels. The hospitals segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% over the analysis timeframe.
 

• Hospitals are major centers for orthopedic surgeries, including procedures such as joint replacements, ligament repairs, and spinal surgeries. Orthopedic braces are often used post-surgery to provide support, immobilization, and aid in the healing process. Hospitals handle a significant portion of trauma cases, including fractures and musculoskeletal injuries resulting from accidents or falls. Orthopedic braces play a crucial role in stabilizing fractures and providing support during the recovery phase.
   
• Moreover, hospitals are progressively engaging in collaborations with orthopedic surgeons and specialists to ensure the accurate prescription and fitting of knee braces for patients grappling with diverse orthopedic conditions. The market is further stimulated by the increasing prevalence of orthopedic disorders, coupled with the availability of highly skilled healthcare professionals, collectively contributing to the positive trajectory of the hospitals segment.

North America orthopedic braces and support market accounted for USD 1.6 billion in revenue in 2023 and is predicted to witness substantial market growth.
 

• The presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure in North America facilitates the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of orthopedic conditions. Access to specialized orthopedic care and a well-established distribution network for orthopedic products contribute to the dominance of the North America segment.
   
• The region has a culture of active lifestyle and widespread sports participation. This leads to a higher incidence of sports-related injuries, driving the demand for sports protective equipment such as orthopedic braces. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts frequently utilize braces for preventive measures and post-injury support, bolstering the North America segment.
   
• Moreover, North America adheres to a well-defined regulatory framework ensuring the quality and safety of medical devices, including orthopedic braces. This regulatory compliance enhances consumer confidence and fosters the market's growth within the segment. Hence, as these factors continue to shape the healthcare landscape, the market is expected to thrive, providing opportunities for further innovation and advancements in orthopedic braces and support system.
   

Orthopedic Braces and Support Market Share

The orthopedic braces and support industry is fragmented in nature, with companies competing to offer superior orthopedic support systems in this business space. The development and launch of novel advanced products based on different technologies are among a key market strategy. Some of the leading industry players including 3M Company, Össur, Ottobock SE & Co. KGaA, and Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc., among others have a notable presence in the market.
 

Orthopedic Braces and Support Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the orthopedic braces and support industry include:

• 3M Company
• Bauerfeind
• Becker Orthopedic
• Bird & Cronin, LLC.
• DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
• Enovis Corporation
• Essity Health & Medical
• Frank Stubbs Company Inc.
• Medi GmbH & Co. KG
• Ossur
• Ottobock SE & Co. KGaA
• Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.
   

Orthopedic Braces and Support Industry News:

• In September 2023, Enovis Corporation announced a definitive agreement to acquire LimaCorporate S.p.A., a privately held orthopedic company. Lima’s technological solutions, including digital innovation and patient-tailored hardware, are developed to empower surgeons and improve patient outcomes following joint replacement surgery. This acquisition may help the company to enhance their product portfolio and business revenue.
   
• In September 2019, Össur Launched Rebound ACL Knee Brace, which has been designed to help patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This product launch helped the company to expand product portfolio and acquire enhanced customer base.

Orthopedic braces and support market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2018 to 2032 for the following segments:

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Market, By Category

• Lower body extremities
  • Knee
  • Ankle and foot
  • Other lower body extremities 
• Upper body extremities
  • Hand and wrist
  • Elbow
  • Shoulder
  • Other upper body extremities
• Spine and back

Market, By Type

• Soft
• Rigid
• Hinged

Market, By Application

• Ligament injury
• Osteoarthritis
• Post-operative rehabilitation
• Preventive care
• Compression therapy
• Other applications

Market, By Patient

• Adult
• Pediatric

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Hospitals
• Orthopedic centers
• Pharmacies and retailers
• E-commerce platforms
• Other distribution channels

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East and Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE
  • Rest of Middle East and Africa