Stryker (NYSE: SYK) is a medical technology company that manufactures orthopedic implants that are used in joint replacement surgeries, trauma, spinal and craniomaxillofacial surgeries. The company also manufactures surgical power tools and medical furniture such as stretchers and medical beds.

Aging baby boomers will double the number of Americans that are over 65 by 2030. The expanding population of elderly represents a revenue opportunity for Stryker because older Americans are much more likely to require joint replacement surgeries. Improved technology has resulted in longer lasting orthopedic implants that are more viable for individuals in their 50s and 60s, expanding the overall market. In the past doctors have preferred limiting implants to older patients, for fear that younger patients would require multiple replacements due the short life spans of the implants. ^[1]. Growing obesity in the United States provides an additional tailwind for the company. Like the elderly, the obese are more likely to require joint replacement, because the excess weight puts additional pressure on their joints.

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