SITTING and smart phones are a couple of culprits for the growing problem of low back pain, which now ranks second in Australasia and seventh in the world, according to the “Global Burden of Disease” study.

“Every day more and more Australians experience disabling low back pain, neck pain and headaches, limiting their ability to work and engage in an active healthy life” said Chiropractors’ Association of Australia president, Dr Laurie Tassell.

“One explanation for this is the negative impact an increasingly sedentary lifestyle has on postural fitness. Think about all the hours you spend each day sitting at work or school, commuting, on your computer or other mobile device and watching television.

“Poor posture increases pressure on your spine which can cause low back pain, neck pain, headaches and fatigue.”

Low back pain is a growing problem and now ranks second in Australasia and seventh in the world, according to the World Health Organisation’s latest “Global Burden of Disease” study. Neck pain is also problematic ranking ninth in Australasia and 21st in the world.

“Adopting healthy habits today, such as improving postural fitness, can significantly reduce the risk of injury or pain in later years positively impacting on our self-esteem, social relationships and mental health,” said Dr Tassell in promoting Spinal Health Week 2015 (May 25-31). He urged people to visit the dedicated website, spinalhealthweek.com.au, to learn more about spinal health and chiropractic care.

“The website has some great resources. The ‘Locate a Chiropractor’ button, for instance, is a handy tool and with the click of a button you can find your local CAA chiropractor. There are also a couple of exciting competitions on the website for children and adults, which I encourage everyone to enter.

“In addition to that, our Spinal Health Week blog at geturhappyback.com.au is a great way you can stay updated on the latest news around spinal health, wellness and getting your happy back.”