#Japan #Digital Therapeutics #Fukushima #Locomotive Syndrome #Future Corporation

Significant Advances in Digital Therapeutics for Locomotive Syndrome

Future Corporation, based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has announced the successful results of a collaborative research study conducted with Fukushima Medical University and KKR Hamanomachi Hospital in Fukuoka. The study focused on using a smartphone app designed for digital therapeutics (DTx) aimed at patients suffering from locomotive syndrome. This condition, characterized by impaired motor function and mobility due to musculoskeletal disorders, poses a significant health challenge, especially among the elderly.

Study Overview

The research established the effectiveness of a smartphone application that provided targeted interventions for improving lower limb strength and overall quality of life (QOL) in patients with locomotive syndrome. The findings were published in the prestigious open-access journal, JMIR Aging, which has been ranked first in the gerontology category by the Journal Citation Reports for 2025.

Collaboration for Better Health

This innovative initiative brought together experts from the orthopaedic surgery department at Fukushima Medical University, led by Professor Yoshihiro Matsumoto, and KKR Hamanomachi Hospital, under the management of Director Shuichi Taniguchi. Future Corporation contributed by developing a prototype smartphone application aimed at enhancing the daily physical activities of patients.

The app supports two specific exercise routines: single-leg standing and squats—activities highly endorsed by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association for preventing locomotive syndrome. Patients receive guided instructions through videos and audio, making it easier for them to follow along and engage in the required exercises.

Research Findings and Impact

The clinical trial involved Japanese participants aged 40 and over, each scoring 7 or more on the GLFS-25 scale designed to assess locomotive syndrome. Over an 8-week period, significant improvements were observed in walking ability and various aspects of motor function, with a completion rate of 93%. This impressive adherence rate highlights digital technology’s potential to promote behavioral changes and establish sustainable exercise habits among older adults.

The outcomes indicate that non-face-to-face interventions using the app are a feasible treatment option for enhancing exercise habits and improving physical functions in patients.

Voices from the Team

Kiyotaka Kadowaki, Director of Future Corporation’s Healthcare Innovation Group, expressed great satisfaction with the acceptance of the research findings. He extended his gratitude to everyone involved from Fukushima Medical University and KKR Hamanomachi Hospital, acknowledging their significant contributions to the study.

He highlighted that addressing locomotive syndrome is a critical challenge in today’s super-aged society. The insights gained from this research will be instrumental in the continued development of digital technologies aimed at improving healthcare services and alleviating societal issues.

Youhei Takenaka, another director at Future, praised the collaborative spirit of the project and thanked all participants for their enthusiasm during app design and the establishment of a secure data foundation. He recounted how participants expressed their desire to continue using the app beyond the study, illustrating its impact and potential to foster lasting physical activity habits.

Future Prospects

Future Corporation is committed to leveraging its expertise in IT to drive digital transformation and innovation in healthcare. By collaborating with medical device companies and pharmaceutical firms in developing software as a medical device (SaMD), they aim to produce high-quality applications that enhance health outcomes. Future remains dedicated to utilizing technology to advance healthcare and solve pressing medical challenges.

With the success of this study, the journey continues for Future Corporation as they push the boundaries of digital health interventions, promising a brighter future for patients suffering from locomotive syndrome and other health-related issues.