New Zealand healthcare software innovation leads the world again!

South Island-based company, Sore Back Solutions, have developed a world first... A personalised web-based wellness programme for those affected by common low back pain.

* Common back pain is the industrialised world's most costly single health issue.

* More working days are lost as a result of back pain than any other ailment.
* Back pain is the second most common reason for doctor's visits.

* 80%-90% of New Zealand adults will be affected by the condition at some stage in their lives.

* Each month ACC process approx. 1000 new claims for back pain.

* Between 2000 and 2005 ACC claimant costs doubled from $21 million p.a. to $42 million p.a.

* Total annual ACC spend on back pain exceeds $350 million dollars.

* Called the Online Personal Treatment Centre (OPT-Centre) the website went live on 1st July 2007.

* Queenstown-based Strength & Conditioning guru Jamie 'thebackman' Martin, founder of Sore Back Solutions, and fellow company shareholders/directors Eion Edgar and Trevor Nicolson have dedicated almost two years and invested almost $500,000 developing the product.

* Software has been developed by Breathe Communications, Wellington.

* Developed IN New Zealand, BY New Zealanders to access the 'global' back pain market.

* Jamie Martin was given the nickname 'thebackman' by long-time client Michael Hill, Jeweller.

* In March 2006 Sore Back Solutions received a $20,000 NZTE grant to assist product development.

* Product was officially 'pitched' to ACC Clinical Services managers on May 28th 2007 in Wellington and they are currently evaluating and assessing its suitability.

See; www.sorebacksolutions.com

ENDS