Orthopedic bracing, casting and splinting plays an important role in the treatment and rehabilitation of various musculoskeletal injuries and conditions in India. From fractured bones to strained muscles to post-surgery recovery, orthopedic supports help patients immobilize injured areas, apply pressure or traction, and protect healing tissues. With India's growing population and rates of road accidents, sports injuries and chronic diseases affecting bones and joints, the demand for quality orthopedic supports has significantly increased in the country.
Common Types of Orthopedic Injuries in India
Some of the most common orthopedic conditions requiring bracing, casting or splinting in India include:
- Fractures: Bone fractures, especially of the lower and upper limbs, are very prevalent due to accidental falls and road traffic accidents. Common fracture sites include wrist, ankle, knee, shoulder and collar bone.
- Sprains and Strains: Sprains or tears of ligaments and strains or tears of muscles are common sports and exercise injuries. Ankle sprains are the most frequent, followed by knee, wrist and shoulder injuries.
- Post-surgical Recovery: A wide variety of orthopedic surgeries like knee replacement, hip replacement, repair of ligaments or tendons, etc. require braces, casts or splints during the post-op immobilization and rehabilitation phase.
- Arthritis and Joint Pain: Patients with osteoarthritis of weight-bearing joints like knees and hips frequently use bracing and unloading splints to reduce pain and discomfort.
- Sports Injuries: Repeated impact activities like cricket, football, gymnastics, etc. lead to injuries like stress fractures, tendon tears and muscle strains requiring immobilization.
Major Orthopedic Bracing and Casting Products
To treat the above mentioned conditions, India Orthopedic Braces & Support, Casting & Splints commonly prescribe:
- Plaster casts: Made of fiberglass or plaster of paris, casts are very effective to immobilize fractured bones and injured joints during the healing phase. Fiberglass casts are lighter.
- Splints: Rigid supports made of plastic, thermoplastic or aluminum that immobilize injured areas like wrists, fingers or ankles without encasing the entire limb.
- Knee braces: Hinged or sleeve designs to support osteoarthritic or reconstructed knees. Some have dual posts for extra stability.
- Ankle braces: Laced supports or rigid air casts for sprains/strains. Recently popularized by athletes on field for prevention too.
- Shoulder immobilizers: Slings are most basic but padded braces with straps also provide support post injury or surgery.
- Elbow braces: For tennis/golfer's elbow, splints support inflamed tendons and reduce strain during exertion.
- Collar & neck braces: Mostly used post whiplash, fractures or cervical spinal surgeries for neck immobilization and posture correction.
Leading Manufacturers and Distributors
India has a number of established manufacturers producing a wide variety of custom-fit and prefabricated orthopedic braces, splints and casts. Some top companies in this sector include:
- Samarth Orthotics: One of India's largest, specializes in custom bracing solutions using lightweight thermoplastics. Exports globally.
- Novo Brace: Manufacturer focusing on knee braces, custom AFOs and post-op bracing systems. Wide distribution network.
- Tynor Orthotics: Known for affordable fiberglass casting kits and walking boots. Strong presence in mid-sized cities.
- Alcis Health: Manufactures plaster of paris casting materials and supplies. Wide portfolio of off-patent generics.
- Jai Medical Systems: Produces rigid air casts and pedorthic inserts for diabetes patients along with orthopedic supports.
- 3Point Care: Newer player specialized in 3D printed custom braces made using bioabsorbable materials.
In addition, many multispecialty and chain hospitals also have in-house orthotics departments producing braces, splints & casts for patients. Smaller workshops in semi-urban areas too cater to local demands.
The orthopedic bracing, casting and splinting market in India is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 10% in the next 5 years driven by:
- Rising Road Accidents: With increasing motorization, injuries due to vehicular mishaps are growing rapidly. As per reports, India accounts for about 11% of global road accident deaths.
- Increase in Sports Participation: More people taking part in recreational and competitive sports have upped the incidence of related musculo-skeletal injuries requiring bracing or immobilization.
- Aging Population: The proportion of elderly who are more prone to orthopedic conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis is rising in India. Bracing helps in pain management and improved functionality.
- Medical Tourism: India is a popular destination for international patients seeking high quality orthopedic treatments at affordable prices. Post-op bracing requirements contribute to overall sector growth.
- Online Sales: E-commerce is enabling wider access to orthopedic products in smaller towns. Companies are utilizing online platforms to expand their consumer base.
- Growing Healthcare Infrastructure: As hospitals increase across Tier 2/3 cities, availability of advanced orthopedic services like fracture management and joint replacements are spurring demands for supporting products.
With rising orthopedic patient volumes and evolving product technologies, the bracing, casting and splinting industry in India presents positive prospects over the coming years. Established players expanding manufacturing capabilities and new ventures innovating product designs will further strengthen this specialized segment and improve orthopedic case management and rehabilitation outcomes in the country.
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