Nation in grip of ‘bank pain’ crisis as experts warn all to get moving

It’s such a common problem and new research shows Australia is in the grip of a back pain crisis with over 80 per cent of households having at least one occupant affected and over half the sufferers are young aged 25 to 64.
Musculoskeletal disorders (including back pain) cost the Australian economy over $55.1 billion last year in direct health costs, lost productivity and reduced quality of life.
Putting the spotlight on Spinal Health Week (May 20-26), the Australian Chiropractors Association commissioned the national survey, conducted by award-winning global data insights company Pureprofile, revealing the nation is in the midst of a crisis which will only get worse unless Australians manage and treat back pain to align with the new World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.
These guidelines recommend holistic, drug-free approaches like chiropractic healthcare and discourage the use of opioids and paracetamol due to associated risks and lack of effectiveness.
Sydney Olympic Park chiropractor Gokce Oncu says this modern, back pain epidemic is caused by people sitting for longer and not being as active.
“Other contributing factors include lack of sunlight and Vitamin D,” he said.
“It’s important to keep moving, stay hydrated and nourish your body with good food.”
Granville chiropractor Ken McAviney said all the screen time was not helping either.
“People tend to lean forward at the computer or on their phone which puts pressure on posture,” he said.
“The other thing is that children today are not encouraged anymore to ‘sit up straight’ in class, it’s much cooler to slouch and this causes spinal curvature.
“There’s research showing that sitting for over 11 hours a day, shortens your life; sitting is the new smoking so always take regular breaks.”