Tracking steps … and spines? Researchers use Fitbits to monitor back surgery recovery

It seems that when it comes to wellness, the revolution will be digitized.

Wearable health technology—like the Fitbit, Nike FuelBand, Jawbone UP and others—is making a landmark impact on the way consumers set, track, achieve and measure their well-being goals.

That revolution is sweeping employers as well: More than 13 million wearable health devices will be incorporated into company wellness programs by 2018.

However, the devices may have the potential to do more than track current health behaviors; researchers from the University of California-San Francisco, New York University, and Northwestern Medicine are using Fitbits in a study that aims to better predict patient recovery time from spine surgery.

With such exciting possibilities on the horizon, now is the time to get in on the wellness revolution—claim a FREE Fitbit Flex, valued at $100, when you join us at the third annual Health & Benefits Leadership Conference (April 8–10 at the Aria Las Vegas). Pick up your device when you arrive; then, track your steps throughout the event to fund charitable organizations!

View the HBLC agenda and register at www.benefits.conf.com. Use discount code BENZ15 to receive $75 off your registration. Register your team for an additional 10% discount.

We hope to see you there!