Global Underarm Crutches Market Size By Type (Metal, Wood), By Application (Children, Adults), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 to 2032

The Global Underarm Crutches Market was valued at USD 890 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1.45 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2031. The market is driven by the rising incidence of lower limb injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation needs, and increasing geriatric population prone to mobility impairments. Underarm crutches, also known as axillary crutches, are widely used for short-term support and rehabilitation, making them essential in orthopedic and post-operative care.

Drivers:

1. Rising Number of Orthopedic Injuries and Accidents:

An increase in sports-related injuries, vehicular accidents, and age-related degenerative conditions has led to a higher demand for mobility aids such as underarm crutches. They offer an effective and affordable solution for short-term support.

2. Post-operative Rehabilitation Demand:

Crutches are commonly prescribed during post-surgery recovery, especially in procedures involving the lower limbs. The growing number of orthopedic surgeries, including knee and hip replacements, contributes to market expansion.

3. Geriatric Population Growth:

A rapidly aging global population is experiencing mobility challenges due to osteoporosis, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Underarm crutches provide immediate support, making them a preferred choice for elderly patients.

Restraints:

1. Risk of Secondary Injuries and Discomfort:

Long-term use of underarm crutches can cause issues like nerve damage (crutch palsy), skin irritation, and upper body discomfort, limiting their appeal for prolonged use.

2. Availability of Alternative Mobility Devices:

The availability of ergonomic and technologically advanced alternatives such as forearm crutches, walkers, and mobility scooters may restrict market growth.

Opportunity:

1. Product Innovation and Ergonomic Design:

Manufacturers are investing in the development of lightweight materials, shock-absorbing tips, and padded grips to improve comfort and safety. These innovations are expected to attract a broader consumer base.

2. Expanding Demand in Emerging Markets:

Developing economies are witnessing improved healthcare access and increased orthopedic treatments. This creates significant growth potential for underarm crutch adoption across hospitals, clinics, and homecare settings.

Market by System Type Insights:

Adjustable Underarm Crutches dominated the market in 2023, offering flexibility and adaptability across different age groups and patient heights. These crutches are especially favored in clinical settings due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use.

Non-adjustable Underarm Crutches, although declining in usage, remain popular in low-income regions where affordability is critical. However, their lack of customization may limit long-term adoption.

Market by End-use Insights:

Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers represented the largest end-use segment in 2023, accounting for over 50% of global revenue. These facilities require crutches for immediate post-injury or post-operative patient care.

Homecare Settings are anticipated to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period, driven by rising demand for in-home recovery solutions and the growing elderly population opting for self-managed care.

Market by Regional Insights:

North America led the global market in 2023, driven by robust healthcare infrastructure, high incidence of orthopedic procedures, and strong insurance coverage for assistive devices.

Asia-Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period, fueled by expanding healthcare access, a large aging population, and increasing road traffic accidents in countries such as India and China.

Competitive Scenario:

Leading players in the global underarm crutches market include:

Sunrise Medical LLC

Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare

Cardinal Health

Medline Industries, Inc.

DJO Global, Inc.

Invacare Corporation

Carex Health Brands

Nova Medical Products

Ergoactives

Millennial Medical

These companies are focused on strategic collaborations, regional expansion, and ergonomic product innovations to maintain their competitive edge.

Scope of Work – Global Underarm Crutches Market

Report Metric Details

Market Size (2023) USD 890 million

Projected Market Size (2031) USD 1.45 billion

CAGR (2023–2031) 6.3%

Market Segments By System Type (Adjustable, Non-adjustable), By End-use (Hospitals, Homecare)

Growth Drivers Rising orthopedic injuries, aging population, demand for rehabilitation support

Opportunities Product innovation, expansion in emerging markets

Key Market Developments:

2023: Medline Industries launched a new line of ergonomic underarm crutches with antimicrobial padding for improved patient hygiene and comfort.

2024: Sunrise Medical expanded its manufacturing facilities in Southeast Asia to cater to growing regional demand for mobility aids.

2025: Drive DeVilbiss introduced a collapsible underarm crutch series, targeting travelers and temporary injury cases.

FAQs:

1) What is the current market size of the Global Underarm Crutches Market?

The market was valued at USD 890 million in 2023.

2) What is the major growth driver of the Global Underarm Crutches Market?

The primary growth driver is the rising incidence of orthopedic injuries and post-surgery mobility needs.

3) Which is the largest region during the forecast period in the Global Underarm Crutches Market?

North America held the largest market share in 2023.

4) Which segment accounted for the largest market share in Global Underarm Crutches Market?

The adjustable underarm crutches segment accounted for