Chronic Back Pain? Help is at Hand!

Media Release from The Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (CAA)

Chronic Back Pain?  Help is at Hand.

As part of Spinal Health Week 2017 (22-28 May), Chiropractors are raising awareness of chronic back pain and encouraging Australians to seek help.

Chronic back pain is a national issue. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in six Australians are suffering from chronic back problems – that’s an estimated 3.7 million people dealing with the physical and psychological effects of chronic back pain.

The Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (CAA) is using Spinal Health Week 2017 (22-28 May) as an opportunity to bring attention to chronic back pain and encouraging people to seek help.

“More and more Australians are experiencing debilitating back pain, limiting their ability to engage in an active, healthy life” said Dr Andrew Lawrence, CAA National President.

Unlike general back pain which is usually resolved within a few weeks, chronic back pain is a long-term health condition lasting for three months or longer. Making lifestyle adjustments and seeking professional advice from a chiropractor or other health professional can help alleviate chronic back pain symptoms.

Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine and nervous system without the use of surgery or drugs. Chiropractors work towards restoring and maintaining normal spinal function, collaborating with other health professionals where needed.

For chronic back problems, chiropractors use a variety of treatments such as spinal manipulation or manual therapies. They also offer advice on self-management through exercise and lifestyle changes.

“While it is not always possible to identify the cause of chronic back pain, a sedentary lifestyle and poor posture are risk factors” explained Dr Lawrence.

Simple measures such as incorporating walking into a daily routine can reduce the severity of chronic back pain symptoms and improve overall well-being. Improving posture can also help relieve strain on the spine and improve overall health.

The best way to make lifestyle changes is to seek advice, start gradually, be consistent and build capability over time. Check with your local CAA chiropractor or other healthcare professionals before undertaking an exercise to make sure it is appropriate for your specific needs.

Visit spinalhealthweek.com.au to learn more about chronic back pain, chiropractic care and Spinal Health Week.

Spinal Health Week is a national health initiative of the Chiropractors’ Association Australia (CAA). The Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (National) Limited is the peak body representing chiropractors. For more information visit www.chiropractors.asn.au.

Looking to improve your spinal health and overall well-being? The Chiropractors’ Association of Australia have developed apps that can help.

Track your walks, log your walking history and find walking events in your local area with the Just Start Walking app. Download from the App Store.

Use the Straighten Up app to receive reminders and helpful tips on how to improve your posture.

Download Straighten Up (Australia) from the App Store or Google Play.

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Media Contact: Ariel Tate | communications@caa.asn.au

May 23, 2017 By Dr Barry Smith

B.Sc. (Chiro), B.Chiro(Hons), I.C.S.S.D. DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC

Dr Smith is one of the directors of Karrinyup Wellness Centre where he has been practising since 2007. He graduated from Murdoch University with honours and has worked in multi-disciplinary clinics that emphasise paediatric and family care around Australia as well as here in Perth.

In practice, Dr Smith treats families, pregnant mums and children. His enthusiasm and energy give him the ability to work with, engage and captivate the children under his care. He has broad training in a range of chiropractic techniques and extensive training in Neural Organisation Technique and Applied Kinesiology.