The Chinese orthosis and prosthetics market comprises assistive devices such as mobiles, walkers, wheelchairs, and prosthetic limbs that are used by individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. Assistive devices can help improve the quality of life of people with disabilities by enabling them to perform daily tasks easily. The orthosis products reduce the burden on injured joints or limbs providing support to the musculoskeletal system. Prosthetic devices help to replace missing body parts or compensate for physical disabilities which provides better mobility to patients. The rising aging population, increasing number of accidents, and prevalence of chronic diseases are some of the key factors fueling the demand for orthosis and prosthetics in China.
The China Orthosis and Prosthetics Market Demand is estimated to be valued at US$ 2113.57 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 3.9% over the forecast period 2024 to 2030.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the Chinese orthosis and prosthetics are RETAL Industries Ltd., Plastipak Holdings, Inc., ALPLA Werke Alwin Lehner GmbH & Co KG, and Resilux NV. These players are strengthening their market position through new product launches and research & development activities. RETAL Industries Ltd. launched several innovative mobility devices for disabled patients in 2021 to improve their quality of life.
The growing geriatric population in China along with rising incidence of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes are major factors fueling the demand for orthosis and prosthetics. As per estimates, over 20% of the Chinese population will be aged above 65 years by 2030 which increases the risk of disability and mobility issues. Increased healthcare spending by the government on rehabilitation and assistive products is further driving the market growth.
Technological advancements in 3D printing and use of lightweight, durable materials are transforming the orthosis and prosthetics sector. Newer products are being designed focusing on flexibility, comfort, and aesthetic aspects. 3D printed prosthetics provide a customized fit as per patient’s anatomy improving overall functionality.
Market Trends
Growing Integration of Smart Technologies: Manufacturers are developing smart orthosis and prosthetic devices integrated with sensors, motors, and software for real-time analysis of biomechanical functions. This allows accurate motion tracking and activity monitoring.
Greater Accessibility in Lower-tier Cities: With rising purchasing power, demand is increasing from tier 2 and tier 3 cities in China. Players are expanding distribution channels and developing affordable product lines to cater to these markets.
Market Opportunities
Rise in Sports-related Injuries: Participation in sports is increasing rapidly in China creating demand for advanced orthosis such as knee braces, ankle supports etc to facilitate faster rehabilitation.
Growing Medical Tourism: Healthcare infrastructure development offers huge potential for medical device exports including orthosis and prosthetics from China. Global patients are seeking affordable treatment options.
COVID-19 Impact on China Orthosis and Prosthetics Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic had a drastic impact on the growth of China’s orthosis and prosthetics market in the initial months. The imposition of lockdowns and restrictions forced healthcare facilities and businesses in the orthosis and prosthetics space to temporarily shut down operations. This led to a decline in new device fittings and delayed the equipment needs of existing patients. The disruption in the supply chain also created shortages of key prosthetic and orthotic components. Certain non-essential procedures were also postponed to focus medical resources on COVID care.
However, as restrictions started easing, the market witnessed a rebound. Increased awareness about the importance of assistive devices for rehabilitation encouraged higher adoption. The demand for home healthcare increased significantly as people preferred receiving therapy at home over hospitals. Telemedicine also played a vital role in continuing post-fitting services and consultations remotely. Manufacturers responded swiftly to overcome shortages by diversifying suppliers and ramping up local production. The increased demand for assistive technology and focus on empowering individuals with disabilities is expected to drive long-term growth. Post-COVID, strategies involving expanded telehealth offerings, diversified supply chains and investments in R&D will be crucial for sustained market expansion.
Geographical Regions with Highest Market Concentration in China
In terms of value, the orthosis and prosthetics market in China is highly concentrated in the eastern region consisting of provinces such as Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shandong. These developed provinces account for over 50% of the total market revenue due to higher disposable incomes, advanced healthcare infrastructure and growing medical needs of aging populations. The cities of Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing rank among the top revenue generators owing to their large populations and high concentration of private healthcare providers offering specialized orthotic and prosthetic services.
Fastest Growing Regional Market
The central region of China comprising Henan, Hubei and Hunan provinces has emerged as the fastest growing regional market for orthosis and prosthetics. With accelerated economic growth and government focus on improving rural healthcare access, the demand for assistive devices in this region is expanding at a CAGR of over 5%. Initiatives involving mobile screening camps, subsidy programs and public-private partnerships have increased awareness and affordability of orthotic and prosthetic care. Establishment of multispecialty rehabilitation centers is also positively impacting the market growth momentum in Central China.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.