Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Analysis & Forecast: 2025-2032

Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Size and Forecast – 2024 to 2031

The Global Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market is estimated to be valued at USD 7.50 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 11.85 Bn by 2031, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% from 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways of the Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market:

• Based on product, the casting supplies & equipment segment is expected to contribute the highest share of the market with share of 43.1% in 2024
• Based on material, the metal segment is expected to contribute the highest share with 22.1% in 2024.
• Based on application, the fracture management segment is expected to contribute the highest share with 32.5% in 2024.
• North America is expected to top the global market with 36.3% share, followed by Asia Pacific with 25.3% share in 2024.

Market Overview:

Rising number of orthopedic diseases and injuries among the geriatric and pediatric population around the world is the major factor driving the demand for orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints. Additionally, growing participation in sports and outdoor activities that increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries is also contributing to the growth of this market. Furthermore, increasing obesity prevalence and associated musculoskeletal problems has been elevating the need for orthopedic braces for knee, ankle, and back support. However, high cost of orthopedic braces and availability of alternative treatment methods are expected to somewhat restrain the market growth during the forecast years.

Segmental Insights

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Product Insights - Superiority of modern casting techniques and materials

In terms of product, the casting supplies & equipment segment is expected to contribute the highest share of the market with a share of 43.1% in 2024 owing to advancements in casting methods and materials. Traditional plaster casts are being increasingly replaced by synthetic and lightweight casting tapes, cuts, and braces that provide superior strength, comfort, and mobility during recovery. Fiberglass materials allow for maximum breathability while still immobilizing injuries. Prefabricated and customizable casting tools have streamlined the entire process, reducing treatment times. Cutting-edge casting machines offer precise, computer-controlled molding to any body part. This shift to higher performance casting solutions meets the demands of patients seeking faster healing and rehabilitation.

Material Insights - Metal's enduring qualities in orthopedic devices

In terms of material, the metal segment is expected to contribute the highest share with 22.1% in 2024 owing to its intrinsic durability. While other materials offer certain advantages, metal braces, supports, and splints retain their rigidity and load-bearing capabilities over extensive usage periods. The malleability and workability of metals allows for intricate customization to patients' unique conditions. Metals also exhibit corrosion resistance important for wound protection and device longevity. Their weight, although sometimes a perceived disadvantage, provides stabilization especially during strenuous physical rehabilitation exercises. With refined production techniques addressing previous concerns around weight and comfort, metal continues serving as the gold standard material for orthopedic devices.

Application Insights - Management of bone and ligament trauma

In terms of application, the fracture management segment is expected to contribute the highest share with 32.5% in 2024 due to its critical role in healing broken bones and setting them in place for knitting. Casting/splinting a fracture restores stability while the bone reforms, preventing further injury and pain. A wide array of fixtures exists to immobilize differing fracture types along with triage capabilities for complex breaks. Ligament tears and ruptures, although painful, also require timely bracing/supports for tissue regrowth without re-injury risk. Beyond two primary segments, the management of other orthopedic traumas and post-surgical needs demonstrates strong growth potential through effective stabilization solutions.

Regional Insights

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North America Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Trends

North America's dominance in the orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints market, with a 36.3% share in 2024, is driven by the strong presence of leading medical device manufacturers, advanced healthcare infrastructure, increased healthcare spending, and a growing geriatric population more susceptible to orthopedic disorders. Notable companies in the region, such as 3M, Össur, and DJO Finance LLC, have significantly contributed to the market growth through new product launches and expansion of manufacturing facilities.

Asia Pacific Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Trends

The Asia Pacific exhibits the fastest growth in the orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints market with a share of 25.3% in 2024 owing to increasing healthcare expenditure, large patient pools, and government efforts to improve access to modern medical technologies in countries like China and India.

Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Outlook for Key Countries:

U.S. Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Trends

The U.S. orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints market is driven by a high prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions. In June 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 54 million U.S. adults were affected by arthritis between 2013 and 2015, leading to increased demand for orthopedic supports.

Germany Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Trends

The orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints market growth in Germany is propelled by its advanced healthcare infrastructure and a significant elderly population. In June 2023, the Federal Statistical Office of Germany reported that in 2020, 21.8% of the population was aged 65 and over, increasing the need for orthopedic devices.

India Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Trends

The expansion of new orthopedic centers is anticipated to drive market growth in India by increasing the utilization of orthopedic braces and supports. For example, in July 2023, the government of Bihar announced plans to develop a super specialty orthopedic center at Lok Nayak Jaiprakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital. This initiative is expected to enhance the availability and use of orthopedic braces and supports in the region.

Germany Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Trends

Japan's aging demographic is a key trend influencing the orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints industry, In January 2023, the Japan Orthopaedic Association noted a 15% increase in the demand for orthopedic supports from 2022 to 2023, thus reflecting the need for advanced solutions among older adults.

Market Players, Key Devlopment, and Competitive Intelligence

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Key Developments:

• In August, 2024, Aspen Medical, a top provider of spinal solutions for pain and mobility management products, launched the Align Orthosis, the first prefabricated TLSO, Thoraco-Lumbo-Sacral Orthosis designed to mitigate post-surgical proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK). The Align Orthosis offers a non-invasive addition to PJK prevention strategies, providing a multifactorial approach to post-operative care and enhancing spine stability and recovery.
• In May 2024, McDavid, a leader in sports medicine and protective gear, introduced its NRG Knee Brace line featuring innovative spring hinge joint assist technology. This technology reduces knee stress by up to 25% and is 60% lighter than traditional hinges, utilizing high-strength polymer for durability.
• In January 2024, Enovis Corporation, a medical technology company, announced the launch of the DonJoy ROAM OA knee brace through its subsidiary, DJO, LLC. Designed for patients with osteoarthritis or knee pain, the innovative unloader brace reduces pressure on the affected knee, relieving pain, enhancing stability, and improving mobility. Suitable for conservative care, pre-surgery preparation, or postoperative protection, the ROAM OA brace supports patients seeking to maintain or increase activity levels.

Top Strategies Followed by Global Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Players

• Established players: Leading companies prioritize extensive research and development to innovate high-performance products.
  • For instance, DJO Global (now part of Enovis) expanded its ankle and foot product portfolio in April 2023 by introducing the Enofix with Constrictor technology, enhancing stabilization solutions in orthopedic braces.
• Mid-level companies focus on delivering quality, budget-friendly products targeting price-sensitive consumers.
  • For example, DeRoyal Industries offers a range of orthopedic braces that balance affordability with quality, catering to a broader patient demographic.
• Additionally, top players strategically expand their global footprint by establishing manufacturing and distribution hubs across key regions. DJO recently opened new facilities in India and Brazil to cater to the burgeoning medical markets in developing countries. 3M entered partnerships with local suppliers in China and Europe to bolster supply chains and better serve local customers.

Emerging Startups - Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Industry Ecosystem

• Innovative Technologies: Many startups are developing innovative technologies to disrupt the orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints Wearable X develops smart fabric-based knee braces integrated with sensors to track motion and provide real-time feedback via an app. Bioness uses neuromodulation to relieve pain with devices like the Vector Gait and Safe System exoskeletons. Such advanced technologies could enable remote patient monitoring and virtual rehabilitation, influencing industry trends.
• Sustainable Solutions: Sustainable startups also gaining ground. Arx Pax manufactures 3D printed, fully bioresorbable casts and splints that dissolve harmlessly in the body after healing. ZeroWater produces hygienic, single-use fiberglass casting materials from recycled plastics. Their solutions address both environmental and patient needs, contributing to a greener industry.
• Market Contribution: Startups like Amber Implants address specific needs by developing solutions such as the VCFix spinal system, targeting vertebral fractures without relying on bone cement, thus catering to unique patient requirements.

Market Report Scope

Market Dynamics

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Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Growth Factors - Increasing prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders

With the changing lifestyle and increasing sedentary lifestyle among people, the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders has seen a drastic rise globally. Musculoskeletal conditions refer to various disorders related to muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, cartilage, and other connective tissues. Some of the most common musculoskeletal disorders include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoporosis, low back pain, spinal disorders, etc. Rising stress levels, lack of physical activity, obesity, and aging population are major contributing factors for the rising incidence of musculoskeletal disorders. In October 2023, according to a report from the Lancet Rheumatology, the number of people worldwide with other musculoskeletal disorders increased by 123.4% between 1990 and 2020, from 221 million to 494 million. The report predicts that cases of these disorders will rise by 115% from 2020 to 2050, reaching an estimated 1,060 million cases by 2050.

Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Challenge - High cost of advanced orthopedic devices

The global orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints market faces a major challenge due to the high cost of advanced orthopedic devices, especially robotic devices used for surgeries and rehabilitation process. The research and development involved in coming up with innovative robotic technologies that can perform complex orthopedic surgeries, assist patients in rehabilitation, and help improve post-surgery recovery times makes these devices highly expensive. This price of robotic orthopedic devices is putting them out of reach of many patients globally especially in developing nations and uninsured or underinsured patients even in developed markets. The cost challenge limits the scope of new technology adoption and expansion of robotic orthopedic solutions globally.

Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints Market Opportunities - Technological advancements in product design and materials

The global orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints market provides considerable opportunities due to technological advancements happening in product design and materials used. Device manufacturers are focusing on developing new generation of lightweight, customizable, and smart orthopedic products using advanced materials like carbon fiber, super alloys, and shape memory alloys. The use of 3D printing and robotics in product design and manufacturing is allowing for more personalized solutions. Further, the integration of sensors and IoT capabilities in orthopedic devices is making them “smart”, enabling remote monitoring of patient recovery and therapy adherence.

Analyst Opinion (Expert Opinion)

• The orthopedic braces & support, casting & splints market has significant opportunities for growth due to increasing incidence of sports injuries, road accidents, and bone-related diseases. North America dominates the market currently due to the presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure and awareness about the benefits of orthopedic braces, supports, casting, and splints for managing and treating musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.
• Asia Pacific is expected to experience the fastest growth owing to rising elderly population, lifestyle diseases, and medical tourism. Rising geriatric population prone to bone and joint issues act as a driver for market. Ease of use and portability of these products has increased their demand over conventional treatment methods.
• The lack of proper reimbursement policies and high cost of advanced products hinder market growth to some extent. Market players should focus on producing cost-effective products to further penetrate developing regions. They must also obtain approvals and insurance coverage which will add new customers. Manufactures investing in R&D can launch innovative brace designs tailored for various sports.
• Increased awareness through social media marketing can boost the adoption of orthopedic braces for minor injuries. Industry should expand its distribution channels to rural areas to tap into the large untapped markets.

Market Segmentation

•  Product Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2019 - 2031)
• • Casting Supplies & Equipment
    • Plaster Casts
    • Casting Tapes
    • Cast Cutters
    • Casting Tools and Accessories
  • Splinting Supplies & Equipment
    • Fiberglass Splints
    • Plaster Splints
    • Other Splints
    • Splinting Tools and Accessories
  • Orthopedic Braces and Supports
    • Upper Extremity Braces and Support
    • Low Extremity Braces and Support
•  Material Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2019 - 2031)
• • Metal
  • Fabric
  • Thermoplastic
  • Others (Fiberglass/Polyester Casting Tape, etc.)
•  Application Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2019 - 2031)
• • Fracture Management
  • Ligament Injury Support
  • Osteoarthritis Aid
  • Post-operative Care
  • Others (Kyphosis, Scoliosis, etc.)
•  Distribution Channel Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2019 - 2031)
• • Orthopedic Clinics
  • Hospitals
  • Over-the-Counter (OTC)
  • E-commerce
  • Others
• Regional Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Mexico
    • Rest of Latin America
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • U.K.
    • Spain
    • France
    • Italy
    • Russia
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • ASEAN
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
    • GCC Countries
    • Israel
    • Rest of Middle East
  • Africa
    • South Africa
    • North Africa
    • Central Africa
• Key Players Insights
  • 3M Company
  • DJO Global, Inc.
  • Stryker Corporation
  • Zimmer Biomet
  • Breg, Inc.
  • DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
  • Ossur Hf
  • Bauerfeind AG
  • Medi GmbH & Co. KG
  • Ottobock SE & Co. KGaA
  • Smith & Nephew
  • Trulife
  • Orfit Industries N.V.
  • Prime Medical, Inc.
  • Bird & Cronin, LLC