Limber: A digital self-management & outcome measurement tool for evidence-based musculoskeletal therapy

Limber is led by clinicians dedicated to improving access to and outcomes from physical therapy. Our mobile technology provides a self-management tool of musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, with the ultimate goal of delivering personalized and evidence-based exercise programs for those who would benefit most from home-based therapy. Problem Statement MSK injuries affect one in every two adults, including almost 70% of people over age 65, and are now the #1 healthcare cost driver for most health plans and large employers. Employers also face major MSK-related costs (short/long-term disability, workers compensation, employee absenteeism). Research shows early exercise therapy is the appropriate first-line of care and can eliminate the need for further medical interventions, such as opioids, surgery (saving $2,700+/person in medical costs). However, less than 12% of those with MSK injuries are attending physical therapy; challenges include high cost-sharing (deductibles/copayments) as well as time and travel constraints. Furthermore, individuals in rural areas may have problems accessing care. Solution/Technology Our technology is a data-driven and evidence-based solution to improve adherence and access to therapy, and to optimize post-therapy outcomes. We collect demographics; physical, lifestyle, and psychological factors; and validated pain and function outcomes at the start of treatment. Using these data, an evidence-based mathematical model is applied to stratify individuals into different risk categories. We use their risk category to assign an initial treatment program, which consists of engaging, at-home exercise and educational videos. We collect self-reported pain and function outcomes and usage data throughout the 8-week program which we use to modify each individual’s exercises. These features ensure the patient is progressing through their therapy according to their needs. Limber has a clinical trial underway with a top U.S. medical institution with results expected in June 2020. Preliminary data from this trial (as of this submission) indicate this program may produce similar results to conventional PT in pain reduction and functional improvement. Moving forward, we will use machine-learning techniques to refine our risk stratification model. Ultimately, we would be able to better identify people who would be candidates for in-person or home-based exercise therapy, and identify a personalized treatment pathway that would optimize outcomes. Competition There are a few competing companies with virtual PT exercises. Limber stands out in major ways: 1. By focusing on a self-management solution, Limber provides the most cost-effective option on the market (3 to 5 times more affordable than other digital therapeutics). 2. We utilize an evidence-based risk stratification model to create personalized therapy programs based on patient characteristics. 3. We have developed long-form, highly engaging exercise therapy video programs where users simply follow along on screen with Limber’s Chief of Physical Therapy, who has 650,000+ Instagram followers. 4. We use industry-leading outcomes measures to track progress. Sales & Marketing Limber has gained early traction, highlighting its commercial potential. We are engaged with a large national employer client (7,900 employees) and a clinical trial with a leading institution. Limber is actively in discussions with a number of other interested employers, health plans, providers, and channel partners.