Global Medical Crutches Market, By Product (Forearm Crutch, Underarm Crutch), By Material (Metal Alloy, Wood, Carbon and Other Material), By End-User (Adults and Other End-Users) By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2023-2032

Report Overview

Global Medical Crutches Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1,205.8 Million by 2032 from USD 736.3 Million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.

The Rising number of surgeries conducted globally, which is increasing the need for medical crutches, can be attributed to the growth of the medical crutches market. Furthermore, osteoporosis and other conditions related to bones are very common around the world. This increases the need for medical crutches on a global scale. The COVID-19 pandemic harmed consumer demand for these crutches.

The pandemic caused significant disruptions in the supply chain. Medical crutches are affordable in price. Compared to wheelchairs and other walking aids, it is expected that most orthopedic patients and those who have had surgery will use these crutches. All of these aspects are probably going to assist in helping the market expand.

Key Takeaways

• Market Size: Medical Crutches Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1,205.8 Million by 2032 from USD 736.3 Million in 2023.
• Market Growth: The market growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.
• Product Analysis: The market was dominated by the forearm crutch segment in 2022, with a revenue share of 34% globally
• Material Analysis: The highest share of 38.0% in the metal alloy segment in this market was recorded in 2022.
• End-Use Analysis: In 2022, the adult segment had the highest market share at 52.2%.
• Regional Analysis: In 2022, North America is anticipated to have the largest market share at 36%.
• Demographic Factors: Aging populations and sports injuries and accidents were major drivers in demand for medical crutches, with crutches often used by elderly individuals for mobility aiding and after injuries or surgeries.
• Types of Crutches: Crutch options available on the market included various varieties such as axillary (underarm), forearm (European), platform crutches and ergonomic designs that increased forearm crutch use and ergonomic designs that enhanced forearm crutches were becoming more and more prevalent in recent years.
• Innovations: Recent advancements include shock-absorbing crutch tips, foldable crutches for easy transport and wearable hands-free crutches providing greater mobility.

Product Analysis

The market was dominated by the forearm crutch segment in 2022, with a revenue share of 34% globally. According to the product, the market is divided into categories such as forearm crutch, underarm crutch, tetrapod crutch, and other products. Forearm crutches are being used by those who have minor injuries or permanent disabilities. Accidents are responsible for these injuries and disabilities. Forearm crutches are expected to be more prevalent due to the high accident rate.

The crutch market is expected to grow at the fastest rate, with a CAGR of 6.7% in the forecast period. These crutches are usually used by those who are recovering after surgery or have had their legs amputated. Compared to forearm crutches, these crutches need less control.

Material Analysis

The highest share of 38.0% in the metal alloy segment in this market was recorded in 2022. The market is divided into categories based on material, including metal alloy, wood, carbon, glass fiber reinforced composite, and other materials. Those who need to use crutches for an extended duration prefer metal alloy crutches because they are affordable, lightweight, and robust.

This should increase the adoption of these crutches for those with long-term disabilities. All of these factors are helping metal alloy crutches become more popular in the market. The glass fiber-reinforced composites segment will have a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecasted period. These crutches are considered the strongest and most lightweight.

End-User Analysis

In 2022, the adult segment had the highest market share at 52.2%. The market is divided into segments for children, adults, and others based on end-user. A significant portion of the world’s population is made up of adults (18-64 years old). Amputations, accidents, and both short-term and long-term disabilities affect a substantial percentage of adults in this age group. People in this age group also suffer the majority of operations. These elements continue to fuel adults’ significant demand for medical crutches. 

Key Market Segments

Based on Product

• Forearm Crutch
• Underarm Crutch
• Tetrapod Crutch
• Other Products

Based on Material

• Metal Alloy
• Wood
• Carbon
• Glass Fiber Reinforced Composite
• Other Material

Based on End-User

• Adults
• Children
• Other End-Users

Drivers

Rising incidence of disabilities and accidents: The need for medical crutches is being driven by the rising prevalence of impairments and accidents, such as fractures and strains. Crutches are rising in demand as a result of the aging population’s increased risk of falling and mobility problems.

Favorable reimbursement regulations: In many nations, insurance and other reimbursement regulations pay the cost of medical crutches. As a result, crutches are becoming more affordable for patients, which is growing demand for these products.

Rising healthcare expenditure: Better healthcare facilities and treatments are becoming accessible as healthcare spending increase in both developed and developing countries. Medical crutches, a crucial component of post-operative care and rehabilitation, medical crutches are in high demand as a result.

Restraints

Patients opting for alternate options- Most often, arthritis is a chronic condition that can be disabling. However, these issues may be managed in a variety of ways. Surgery is one method for removing the issue permanently. Pain relief is the most obvious advantage of joint surgery among others. The knee bears a great deal of weight and suffers constant stress.

It is prone to damage due to its exposed position and the stress the knee experiences. As a result, there are now many surgical procedures that orthopedic surgeons may do to treat painful knees that may not respond to non-surgical treatments. Due to the permanent nature of operations, more patients are choosing them over crutches as a result, which is predicted to hamper the market expansion for medical crutches.

Opportunity

New product development: The market for medical crutches has a sizable opportunity for product innovation. Crutches can be improved and more comfortable for users as a result of advancements in functionality, design, and materials.

Online sales and distribution: The growth of e-commerce and online sales platforms offers a chance for makers of medical crutches to increase their consumer base and reach. Also, using online sales and distribution methods can save expenses and increase patient accessibility.

Partnership with healthcare providers: Collaborations with healthcare organizations, such as hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, may give manufacturers a steady consumer base and boost brand awareness. As part of post-operative care and rehabilitation programs, these collaborations may potentially result in a rise in the use of medical crutches.

Trends

Rising demand for ergonomic crutches: Ergonomic crutches are becoming more prevalent because they provide patients with improved comfort and support. They have innovative designs and are created with lightweight materials to reduce pressure on the wrists and armpits. Market innovation is being driven by the rising demand for ergonomic crutches.

Rising adoption of adjustable crutches: Adjustable crutches are becoming increasingly prevalent because they can be made to match the height and weight of each patient, which increases their comfort and ease of use. Therefore, there is a growing demand for adjustable crutches in the market.

Development of smart crutches: The creation of “smart crutches” uses sensors and other technologies to track patient movement and give healthcare professionals feedback. These crutches can increase patient movement while minimizing the chance of falls.

Regional Analysis

In 2022, North America is anticipated to have the largest market share at 36%. The significantly aging population and the existence of favorable government regulations are only a few of the elements that contribute to its significant share. During the duration of the forecast period, the region of the Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.8%. The number of disabled individuals in the area is expected to increase due to the region’s increasing population and high geriatric population. Also, there are a lot of accidents in the region.

Key Regions

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Western Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Portugal
  • Ireland
  • Austria
  • Switzerland
  • Benelux
  • Nordic
  • Rest of Western Europe
• Eastern Europe
  • Russia
  • Poland
  • The Czech Republic
  • Greece
  • Rest of Eastern Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Colombia
  • Chile
  • Argentina
  • Costa Rica
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Algeria
  • Egypt
  • Israel
  • Kuwait
  • Nigeria
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Market participants are partnering, and collaborating for new products. Also taking several strategic efforts in an attempt to enhance their product portfolio and gain a competitive edge. For instance, Flexmotiv introduced crutches that are slip-resistant and that up to 10% reduce the jarring forces experience when walking, which makes them ideal for the elderly and the debilitated.

Market Key Players

• Sunrise Medical
• Nova Medical Products
• Millennial Medical
• Chinesport
• IWALKFree
• Cardinal Health
• Home Medical Products
• New York Millennium Pharmaceutical
• Breg, Inc.
• Valley Tool Die, Inc.
• Other Key Players

Recent Developments

• Sunrise Medical: In March 2024, Sunrise Medical acquired a leading European crutch manufacturer to expand its product portfolio and enhance its market presence. This acquisition aims to integrate advanced ergonomic designs into its existing crutch lineup.
• Nova Medical Products: In April 2024, Nova Medical Products launched an innovative crutch model featuring adjustable height and enhanced grip technology. This new product is designed to provide better comfort and stability for users, addressing common issues in traditional crutch designs.
• Millennial Medical: In May 2024, Millennial Medical announced a merger with a prominent rehabilitation equipment company. The merger aims to combine resources and expertise, resulting in a comprehensive range of mobility aids and enhancing market competitiveness.
• Chinesport: In February 2024, Chinesport acquired a regional crutch manufacturer to broaden its product offerings and increase its market share. This strategic acquisition is expected to improve Chinesport’s distribution network and product innovation capabilities.
• IWALKFree: In January 2024, IWALKFree introduced a new hands-free crutch model designed for greater mobility and ease of use. The product features an ergonomic design that allows users to perform daily activities without the limitations of traditional crutches.
• Cardinal Health: In March 2024, Cardinal Health completed a merger with a company specializing in orthopedic support devices. This merger aims to enhance Cardinal Health’s product portfolio in the medical crutches segment and improve service offerings for healthcare providers.

Report Scope