MTN Inc. (Headquarters: Nishi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi; CEO: Sumio Akita), in collaboration with TEAM ISOZAKI, is working on a project to commercialize the unique expertise established through 'Kinmaku Massage®' by Fumio Isozaki, a leading authority on fascia therapy in Japan.

The first phase focuses on product development targeting the over 30 million people in Japan currently suffering from or prone to back pain (referred to as 'back pain wanderers'). The project has launched the 'Oshiri no Kamisama®' (God of the Hips) brand, focusing on the 'gluteus medius'—a muscle crucial for maintaining correct posture and comfortable walking. The foundational product, the 'Oshiri no Kamisama® Kinmaku Bit Corset' (patent pending), has been developed.

Designed for continuous daily use, the product leverages analog benefits for simplicity. The company is preparing to serialize the brand through OEM, adding functions tailored to specific sports, professions, and worksite requirements to reduce the ongoing burden on the lower back and legs.

**Development Background** The project spent 17 years in conception and 2 years in iterative prototyping. Monitor tests were conducted with 40 individuals across various industries, including healthcare workers, nursery teachers, logistics personnel, office workers, and estheticians. Their rigorous feedback led to a simple, compact design that can be used in any situation.

**About TEAM ISOZAKI and Fumio Isozaki** Fumio Isozaki began his research 40 years ago when 'fascia' was not yet a common term. His unique 'Kinmaku Massage®' method focuses on removing adhesions in the fascia that encase muscles to balance the muscular and skeletal systems, addressing the root cause of symptoms rather than just the results.

**Future Outlook** The economic loss due to back pain is estimated at 3 trillion yen, making it a significant social issue. The team aims to deliver this method not only to those in pain but also for prevention in healthy individuals, performance enhancement for athletes, and employee healthcare in corporate wellness programs. They have begun business co-creation with various industries using 'AUBA,' a leading open innovation platform.

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: New Product
  • Organizations: TEAM ISOZAKI / AUBA (eiicon)