Knee Braces Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

The Knee Braces Market was valued at USD 1.28 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 1.88 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 6.54%. The global knee braces market is being driven by several factors, including the increasing prevalence of knee-related injuries, osteoarthritis, and other orthopedic conditions. As the global population ages, the demand for knee braces to manage and alleviate pain associated with degenerative joint diseases is rising. A growing awareness of preventive healthcare and the importance of joint support during physical activity, particularly among athletes, is boosting market growth. Technological advancements in knee brace design, such as lightweight materials and improved comfort features, are also contributing to the market's expansion. The rising adoption of knee braces for post-surgery rehabilitation and injury recovery further accelerates the demand, particularly in regions with high healthcare awareness and sports participation.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Prevalence of Knee Injuries and Orthopedic Conditions

Knee injuries and orthopedic conditions, including osteoarthritis, ligament tears, and patellar disorders, are among the leading causes of disability and pain globally. The prevalence of knee-related conditions has risen significantly, especially in aging populations, where degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis have become more common. As people age, the cartilage in the knee joint deteriorates, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility, which drives demand for knee braces as a non-invasive treatment option. Sports-related injuries, such as ligament strains, meniscus tears, and patellar dislocations, also contribute to the increasing use of knee braces.

According to a study titled, “Trends in Australian knee injury rates: An epidemiological analysis of 228,344 knee injuries over 20 years”, During the 20-year analysis period, a total of 228,344 knee injury diagnoses were reported, with the majority (63%) occurring in males. Knee injuries for both sexes increased in frequency throughout childhood and adolescence, reaching a peak between the ages of 15 and 24, before declining afterward. Over the 20 years, the annual incidence of knee injuries showed significant growth for both males and females. n the most recent period (2017-2018), the annual incidence per capita was found to be 83.9 per 100,000 population for males and 60.1 per 100,000 for females.

The growing demand for preventive care and rehabilitation tools in both athletes and the general population has led to a surge in the adoption of knee braces to aid recovery and manage pain.

As a result, the growing incidence of knee injuries and chronic conditions is expected to remain a primary driver for the global knee braces market. With rising healthcare awareness, more people are turning to knee braces to maintain joint stability and prevent further damage to the knee joint. In addition, the increasing awareness of joint health has created a greater demand for preventive and therapeutic knee braces in medical settings, driving market growth.

Aging Population and Geriatric Care Needs

The aging population, particularly in developed countries, is a major contributor to the expansion of the knee braces market. As people age, they experience natural wear and tear in joints, particularly in the knees. Conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and general joint instability are common in older adults. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global population aged 60 and older is expected to double by 2050, leading to an increased need for medical interventions that promote joint health. By 2050, 80% of the world’s older population will reside in low- and middle-income countries. The rate of population aging is accelerating, surpassing previous trends. In 2020, there were more people aged 60 and older than children under the age of 5. From 2015 to 2050, the proportion of the global population aged 60 and over will nearly double, rising from 12% to 22%.

As a result, the demand for knee braces is escalating as they are often used by elderly individuals to support the knee joint, alleviate pain, and provide stability. Elderly people are more likely to experience mobility issues, making knee braces essential for rehabilitation and pain management. Knee braces can help improve quality of life by allowing elderly individuals to remain more active and reduce the risk of falls and further knee damage. The increasing number of elderly individuals and the need to manage age-related joint conditions are strong drivers for the knee braces market.

Rising Awareness and Adoption of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare has gained significant traction in recent years, as individuals become more conscious of the importance of maintaining health before experiencing serious issues. This growing awareness is particularly evident in sports, where athletes and recreational players are increasingly investing in knee braces as a preventive measure to protect against injuries during intense physical activity. Knee braces are no longer viewed solely as therapeutic devices but are also considered essential for prevention.

In particular, active individuals and professional athletes often wear knee braces during training, competition, and recovery to reduce the risk of ligament strains, meniscus tears, and other injuries that may hinder performance. As sports-related knee injuries are common, athletes in a variety of disciplines, from running and soccer to basketball and tennis, use knee braces to support their joints and ensure longevity in their careers. This shift towards proactive health management has expanded the market for knee braces beyond injury recovery to include injury prevention, a factor that is significantly influencing the market's growth.

Growing Healthcare Access in Emerging Markets

Emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa, are becoming key contributors to the growth of the global knee braces market. As healthcare systems in these regions continue to develop and improve, there is an increasing awareness of knee-related conditions and the benefits of using knee braces for pain relief, rehabilitation, and injury prevention. Rising disposable incomes, coupled with the growing availability of medical products, is driving demand for knee braces in these regions.

The increasing adoption of healthcare insurance, especially in countries like India, Brazil, and China, enables more people to afford knee braces as part of their treatment or recovery process. As sports and recreational activities gain popularity in these regions, the use of knee braces is also rising. The growing healthcare infrastructure in emerging economies further supports the market expansion, as the availability and accessibility of knee braces become more widespread.

Post-Surgery Rehabilitation and Recovery

Post-surgery rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery process following knee surgeries, such as knee ligament repair or knee replacement. Knee braces are widely used to provide support during the recovery phase, offering stability and protection to the knee joint as it heals. They help manage swelling, limit joint movement, and reduce the risk of reinjury during the recovery process.

The increasing number of knee surgeries, driven by factors such as aging populations and the growing incidence of knee-related conditions, is contributing to the demand for knee braces in post-surgery recovery. In particular, knee braces are an integral part of the rehabilitation process for individuals undergoing total knee replacement surgery or recovering from severe knee injuries, further propelling the market.

Key Market Challenges

High Cost of Advanced Knee Braces

One of the primary challenges facing the knee braces market is the high cost associated with advanced knee braces, especially those that incorporate smart technology or are made from premium materials like carbon fiber or thermoplastic polymers. While traditional knee braces are more affordable, high-tech options that include features such as sensors for real-time joint monitoring, customized fits, and wearable capabilities can be significantly more expensive. These high-end models, though effective, may not be affordable for a large section of the population, especially in low- and middle-income regions.

The cost barrier also extends to post-surgery knee braces, which may require continuous replacement due to wear and tear. Individuals without adequate insurance coverage might find it difficult to afford knee braces, limiting their market reach. This price sensitivity is particularly evident in emerging markets where disposable income is lower, and cost-effectiveness plays a vital role in product adoption. As a result, many individuals opt for cheaper, less durable alternatives, which can negatively impact the market’s potential growth, especially in developing countries.

Lack of Awareness and Education in Emerging Markets

In regions like Asia-Pacific, South America, and Africa, awareness of knee braces and their benefits remains limited, particularly in rural and underserved areas. People in these regions may not fully understand the importance of knee support, preventive healthcare, or rehabilitation, which can hinder the adoption of knee braces. The lack of education regarding knee injuries, joint health, and the role of knee braces in preventing injuries and facilitating recovery limits the overall market potential.

Healthcare providers in some of these regions may not be well-equipped to advise patients on the correct use of knee braces or may lack knowledge about the types of braces available. This results in a slow adoption rate in emerging markets, where traditional methods of treatment such as painkillers, bandages, or home remedies may be preferred over more modern, specialized medical devices. To drive growth in these markets, there is a pressing need for greater education and awareness campaigns, both for healthcare professionals and the general public, regarding the benefits and uses of knee braces.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements in Knee Brace Design

The development of new technologies has played a pivotal role in the growth of the global knee braces market. Knee braces have become more lightweight, comfortable, and durable due to technological advancements in materials and design. Traditional metal braces have been replaced by more flexible and functional carbon fiber or thermoplastic materials that offer superior strength and flexibility. In addition, new designs focus on ergonomics and adjustability, allowing users to customize the fit and comfort of the brace. In May 2022, Enovis (DJO, LLC) acquired the assets of Outcome-Based Technologies, LLC, including the CryoKnee knee brace and EXCYABIR hip brace, to enhance its braces product portfolio. This move is part of a strategy to boost capabilities, broaden product offerings, and strengthen expertise.

Smart knee braces are also on the rise, with advancements incorporating sensors that monitor joint movement and provide feedback to both the wearer and healthcare professionals. These smart devices can assist in tracking rehabilitation progress and offer insights into knee joint health, which further fuels the demand for knee braces in both clinical and home settings. As knee braces become more technologically advanced, they are gaining popularity among a broader range of users, including athletes, patients recovering from surgery, and individuals seeking preventive support.

Increasing Sports Participation and Sports-Related Injuries

Sports participation has risen globally, particularly in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, where active lifestyles are becoming more mainstream. However, this increase in physical activity has also led to a surge in sports-related injuries, especially knee injuries. Sports injuries account for a large percentage of knee-related conditions, including ligament injuries, sprains, strains, and fractures. Knee braces are an essential part of rehabilitation and recovery for athletes, helping them to return to their sports more quickly and safely. In January 2022, Zynex, an innovative medical technology company specializing in non-invasive devices for pain relief, rehabilitation, and patient monitoring, announced the expansion of its product range to include post-operative and osteoarthritis (OA) knee braces.

From professional athletes to amateur sports enthusiasts, knee braces are widely used for protection, stabilization, and pain relief. Various sports, such as football, basketball, soccer, and skiing, place significant stress on the knee joints, making knee braces an integral part of injury prevention and recovery protocols. As the participation rate in sports and recreational activities continues to rise, the demand for knee braces to address acute injuries and long-term support is expected to increase.

Segmental Insights

Product Insights

Based on the product, functional knee braces dominated the global knee braces market. Functional knee braces are designed to provide support, stabilization, and protection for individuals who have already experienced a knee injury, often after surgery or significant trauma. These braces are primarily used by athletes and active individuals who are recovering from knee injuries, such as ligament sprains, tears, or surgeries like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

The demand for functional knee braces is largely driven by the increasing prevalence of sports-related injuries and the growing number of knee surgeries performed globally. Athletes, especially in high-impact sports such as football, basketball, and skiing, face a higher risk of knee injuries. Consequently, functional knee braces are widely used in these sports to stabilize the knee joint during activity, reducing the risk of re-injury and facilitating the return to play.

These braces not only help to manage existing injuries but also provide much-needed support for the knee joint to regain strength and stability post-surgery. In addition to athletes, functional knee braces are also used by non-professional individuals recovering from knee surgeries or injuries. As more people are seeking ways to stay active even after experiencing knee injuries, functional knee braces offer a non-invasive solution for managing knee instability and pain. This has led to increased demand in the general population, particularly in regions with active lifestyles and sports culture.

The versatility of functional knee braces is another reason for their dominance in the market. These braces typically feature adjustable straps, knee cup designs, and specialized hinges that allow for a custom fit, ensuring that users can find the most comfortable and effective level of support. As a result, these braces are used not only for rehabilitation following surgery but also for preventive purposes in individuals who are at risk of further knee injuries. For example, individuals who engage in physically demanding jobs or intense exercise routines often use functional knee braces to provide additional joint protection.

Functional knee braces are designed to enhance mobility and provide dynamic support, which is essential for people who need to continue daily activities or maintain an active lifestyle. The use of materials such as neoprene or breathable fabrics makes these braces comfortable for long periods of wear, while the inclusion of hinges or rigid bars offers greater stability and control. These features make functional knee braces a preferred choice for those seeking an optimal combination of flexibility, protection, and comfort.

End Use Insights

Based on the end use segment, hospitals was the dominant segment. Hospitals play a central role in the knee braces market due to their comprehensive healthcare services, high patient volumes, and the critical nature of knee-related treatments, including surgeries and rehabilitation. Hospitals typically provide medical care for individuals with severe knee injuries, osteoarthritis, and other knee-related conditions that require intensive care, often resulting in the prescription of knee braces as part of the recovery or management process.

The primary reason hospitals dominate the knee braces market is their role in post-surgical care and the rehabilitation process. After knee surgeries such as ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction, total knee replacement, or ligament repair, patients often require knee braces for support during their recovery. These braces are used to limit joint movement, stabilize the knee, and reduce pain, helping the patient heal more effectively. Hospitals have specialized healthcare teams, including orthopedic surgeons and physiotherapists, who assess the specific needs of each patient and recommend the appropriate knee brace, often from established brands or trusted suppliers.

Hospitals offer comprehensive patient care that encompasses diagnosis, treatment, surgery, and recovery, which makes them an ideal setting for knee brace prescriptions. Many hospitals also provide access to advanced knee braces, such as those with smart features or customized fits, which are often prescribed to patients based on their specific needs and medical conditions. Given the complexity of knee injuries and the diverse range of braces available, hospitals offer a trusted environment where patients can receive guidance on the most appropriate solution for their condition.

Regional Insights

North America was dominating the global knee braces market, driven by a combination of factors such as high healthcare spending, advanced healthcare infrastructure, increasing awareness of knee injuries, and a growing aging population. The region has a well-established healthcare system that is highly accessible, offering advanced medical treatments, rehabilitation services, and a variety of specialized medical devices, including knee braces.

One of the key drivers of the dominance of North America in the knee braces market is the high prevalence of knee injuries and age-related knee conditions. Knee injuries, especially those related to sports and physical activities, are common in North America. The demand for knee braces is particularly high among athletes, especially those involved in high-impact sports such as football, basketball, and soccer. As sports injuries are widespread, knee braces are used not only to support the knee after an injury but also as a preventive measure to avoid further damage during activities. The growing number of elderly individuals in North America contributes significantly to the demand for knee braces.

Knee-related disorders, such as osteoarthritis and ligament tears, are common among aging populations, making knee braces an essential tool in managing these conditions and maintaining mobility. Hospitals and clinics in North America often prescribe knee braces as part of rehabilitation protocols following surgeries, such as ACL reconstructions or knee replacements, which further propels the market. The availability of specialized knee braces, including functional, rehabilitative, and unloader knee braces, in hospitals and orthopedic centers in the region ensures that patients have access to the right products for their needs, enhancing their recovery process and offering them greater mobility.

North America also benefits from a robust insurance system, particularly in the United States, where health insurance often covers the cost of medical devices such as knee braces. This makes knee braces more accessible to a large portion of the population, including those who may need them for post-surgery recovery or managing chronic knee conditions. Insurance coverage for knee braces fosters an environment where individuals are more likely to purchase them when necessary, further boosting the market demand.

Key Market Players

• Breg, Inc.
• Bauerfeind USA Inc.
• Ottobock SE & Co. KGaA
• Össur hf
• Enovis Corporation
• Mueller Sports Medicine, Inc.
• Weber Orthopedic LP. DBA Hely & Weber.
• Dicarre LLC
• Thuasne USA, Inc.
• Icarus Medical Innovations

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Knee Braces Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Knee Braces Market, By Product:

• Prophylactic
• Functional
• Rehabilitative
• Unloader

Knee Braces Market, By Application:

• Sports
• Ligament
• Arthritis
• Others

Knee Braces Market, By End Use:

• Orthopedic Clinics
• OTC
• Hospitals
• Others

Knee Braces Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Knee Braces Market.

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Company Information

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