India Physiotherapy Equipment Market Analysis

India Physiotherapy Equipment Market Executive Summary

The India Physiotherapy Equipment Market was valued at $380.09 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2023 to 2030, to $750.16 Mn by 2030.

Physiotherapy equipment refers to the instruments that physiotherapists use to help cases recover from accidents, operations, or habitual conditions. These include exercise cycles, ultrasound machines, and resistance bands. The utilization of physiotherapy equipment can help reduce the level of care required for these patients.

Musculoskeletal conditions encompass a wide range of conditions and conditions affecting the muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues, leading to pain, mobility limitations, and reduced functioning. These conditions include low reverse pain, neck pain, fractures, osteoarthritis, amputations, rheumatoid arthritis, and other musculoskeletal issues. Musculoskeletal diseases affect limited mobility and are a significant cause of disability. According to Health and Safety Executive, in 2022/23, an estimated 1.8 Mn workers in India suffered from work-related ill health, with Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders accounting for 27% of those cases. Hence, the increasing prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and arthritis is projected to drive up the demand for physiotherapy equipment, consequently propelling market expansion.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like the aging population and the rising prevalence of cardiovascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal diseases, technological advancements in the industry and expanding healthcare infrastructure. However, presence of alternative treatments,  limited accessibility to specialized physiotherapists, and strict regulatory approval hinder the growth of the market.

The leading pharmaceutical companies include HMS Medical Systems and Sigma Corporations for physiotherapy equipment. DJO Global, Medtronic India, and Enraf-Nonius BV are also significant contributors to the physiotherapy equipment landscape, with continuous research and development activities.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rise in Geriatric Population: Arthritis impacts 15% of India's population. Geriatric physiotherapy is crucial due to the elderly's various health issues like cardiovascular decline, vision and hearing impairment, and diabetes. Manufacturers are investing significantly in advanced physiotherapy equipment to alleviate suffering. The prevalence of age-related physical and mental ailments is projected to rise in future years.

Increasing Technical Progress: Innovative physiotherapy equipment is revolutionizing patient care. Electrotherapy devices like extracorporeal shockwave therapy ease pain and improve mobility. Ultrasound machines provide targeted treatment, while robotic rehabilitation systems enable personalized, high-intensity therapy. These advancements enhance treatment efficacy, reduce costs, and improve patient outcomes, driving rapid growth in the physiotherapy equipment market.

Sedentary Lifestyles and Increasing Incidence of Physical Injuries: Rising stress from work and personal life has led to a lack of energy for physical activities, causing an increase in orthopedic issues. As physical activity decreases, the risk of injuries caused by brittle bones and stiff joints has increased. The rising number of road accidents leads to serious injuries like herniated discs and knee trauma, which can be treated with physiotherapy.

Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure: Investments in India's healthcare system, including the development of advanced rehabilitation facilities, are creating opportunities for the physiotherapy equipment market.

Market Restraints

Lack of Skilled Physiotherapists: Shortages of qualified physiotherapists and health care providers limit the use and acceptance of physiotherapy equipment, as patients are not able to access trained professionals who can use it effectively and safely. It also limits the adoption of new technologies, especially in remote areas.

Regulatory Obstacles: India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has a demanding approval process for physiotherapy equipment. This can significantly delay new devices from reaching patients. Companies seeking to enter the Indian market face hurdles from the CDSCO, potentially hindering the overall growth and innovation in physiotherapy equipment within the country.

Alternative Treatment Methods: Physiotherapy equipment faces competition from alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage. These options offer pain relief and potentially a more holistic approach, appealing to some patients. This competition could limit the demand for specialized physiotherapy equipment and the therapists who use it.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The regulatory landscape for medical devices in India is governed by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). Medical devices are classified into five categories based on risk levels: A (non-measuring/sterile), A (measuring/sterile), B, C, and D. This classification system helps in regulating devices based on their potential for harm. An ISO 13485 certification is required to certify the quality system/s of the legal and/or actual manufacturing facilities. Manufacturers must submit a Plant Master File (PMF) for each manufacturing site to show conformity.
The Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is a government-sponsored health insurance scheme that provides coverage for physiotherapy services. Many health insurance plans in India provide coverage for physiotherapy treatments, either as part of the outpatient department (OPD) benefits or as a separate add-on.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the India Physiotherapy Equipment Market:

• Medtronic India
• HMS Medical Systems
• Medgears
• Sigma Corporation
• Enraf-Nonius B.V.
• BTL PhysioLine
• Rehab Equip
• Medifoucs India Private Limited
• DJO Global
• Zynex Medical Inc.