Orthopedic Braces and Support Market Analysis

Orthopedic Braces and Support Market Analysis

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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.