June is National Spinal Health Month, an initiative of the Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) to encourage all Australians to join the ‘spinal health movement‘ to help prevent back pain disorders, one of the leading causes of disability in Australia, linked to increased mental health challenges for sufferers.
Back pain is a musculoskeletal disorder (MSDs) accounting for the greatest proportion of persistent pain conditions often linked to depression and psychological distress. The link between MSDs specifically back pain and depression is well documented in global research studies that have found people living with chronic back pain are at heightened risk of experiencing mental health problems.
Back pain and mental health conditions are associated with impaired quality of life while the increased risk of developing a chronic back pain condition also poses a significant ongoing financial burden on sufferers and the economy as a whole.
Annually, MSDs cost the Australian economy around $55.1 billion in direct health costs, lost productivity and reduced quality of life while significantly limiting mobility and dexterity that leads to early retirement, reduced socio-economic circumstances and limits the ability to participate in social activities causing isolation.
Get Involved in National Spinal Health Month
In June 2026, ACA will celebrate 30 years of Australia’s longest-running, award-winning spinal health campaign withNational Spinal Health Month, an essential public health initiative encouraging Australians of all ages to better manage spinal health to inhibit chronic back pain and limit the impact it has on sufferers’ mental health and overall wellbeing.
By promoting prevention and minimising long-term harm through early diagnosis and effective chiropractic healthcare, we can minimise back pain and reduce the negative impact it has on sufferers and the economy.
To help prevent back pain, individuals and organisations are encouraged to visit www.spinalhealth.org.au to access a range of free resources, including factsheets, posters and podcasts, to learn how to maximise spinal health and improve overall wellbeing, because a healthy spine supports a healthy mind.
For information or to register for National Spinal Health Month visit www.spinalhealth.org.au.
