National Spinal Health Month June 2026: A Healthy Spine, A Healthy Mind

Written by Dr Nicole Hudson, Principal Chiropractor at Connect Chiropractic, Noble Park. Dr Hudson holds a BHSci(Chiro), MClinChiro, GradDip MedSc, and BSc, with over 25 years of clinical experience in spinal health and musculoskeletal care.

June marks National Spinal Health Month, an initiative encouraging Australians to prioritise spinal health and take action to prevent back pain, one of the leading causes of disability across the country.

While back pain is often thought of as “just physical,” research shows it can also have a major impact on mental health, wellbeing, work productivity, and quality of life.

Chronic back pain is persistent pain lasting more than three months, affecting the muscles, joints, and nerves of the spine. It is one of Australia’s most prevalent health conditions and is strongly associated with depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life. When left unmanaged, it can become a significant barrier to work, mobility, and daily function.

Chronic back pain and mental health are closely linked. Pain can cause or worsen depression and anxiety, while poor mental health can increase pain sensitivity and slow recovery. This cycle can be difficult to break without an integrated approach that addresses both the physical and psychological dimensions of care.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including back pain, are among the most common causes of persistent pain conditions and are strongly linked to depression, anxiety, and psychological distress.

ACA President Dr Billy Chow explains that the combination of chronic pain and mental health challenges can significantly affect a person’s daily life.

“The coexistence of back pain and mental health conditions is associated with impaired quality of life,” Dr Chow said. “It also creates a significant ongoing financial burden for individuals and the Australian economy.”

Dr Nicole, Chiropractor at Connect Chiropractic says the connection between chronic pain and mental health is something practitioners see regularly.

“Chronic back pain can contribute to psychological and social problems, while depressive symptoms can worsen pain and increase disability,” Dr Hudson said. “This creates a cycle that can significantly impact overall wellbeing.”

The Economic and Social Cost of Back Pain in Australia

Back Pain in Australia: Key Figures

• 6.1 million Australians currently live with musculoskeletal disorders
• 3.2 million working-age Australians projected to have chronic back pain by 2033
• 4.6% projected reduction in Australia’s GDP over the next decade
• $638 billion in estimated lost productivity costs
• 43% of Australians will experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime
• 4 in 5 Australians will experience back pain at some point in their lives
• 300,000+ Australians visit a chiropractor each week

Research suggests that by 2033, around 3.2 million working-age Australians could be living with chronic back pain if more preventative action is not taken.

The economic impact is also substantial. Chronic back pain is expected to reduce Australia’s GDP by approximately 4.6% over the next decade, with lost productivity costs estimated to reach $638 billion.

Currently, almost one in three Australians (around 6.1 million people) are already living with musculoskeletal disorders, with many in their peak working years.

On top of this, nearly 43% of Australians report experiencing a mental health disorder at some point in their lives, highlighting the growing need for better preventative healthcare strategies that support both physical and mental wellbeing.

Why Early Treatment for Back Pain Matters

Many people ignore back pain in the early stages, assuming it will simply go away. However, without appropriate care and management, acute back pain can become chronic and more difficult to treat.

Psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, is common among people experiencing ongoing pain. Fear of movement or worsening symptoms can also lead people to avoid activity altogether, which may increase stiffness, pain, disability, and long-term health complications. Read more about the link between chronic pain and nervous system stress.

Research from Sydney University has also highlighted concerns around the over-prescription of opioids for back pain, despite evidence showing they are often ineffective for acute low back pain and may even worsen outcomes for some patients.

Health experts are increasingly recommending a more integrated and holistic approach to back pain management.

Recommended Approaches to Back Pain Management

• Staying active where appropriate
• Seeking early assessment and care
• Improving posture and movement habits
• Making healthy lifestyle changes
• Learning strategies to self-manage pain
• Using non-invasive, drug-free treatment approaches where suitable

Holistic care can help reduce disability, improve quality of life, support workforce participation, and lower long-term healthcare costs.

How to Support Your Spinal Health and Mental Wellbeing

Dr Hudson says prevention and early intervention are key.

“By taking an informed and proactive approach, including healthy lifestyle changes, staying active, and seeking early care when back problems occur, people can often reduce the risk of long-term pain and associated mental health complications,” she said.

“Maintaining spinal health is essential for staying active, independent, and feeling good at any age.” We offer specialised chiropractic care for seniors to support mobility and independence.

With four out of five Australians expected to experience back pain at some point in their lives, awareness and education have never been more important.

According to Global Health Education Australia, more than 300,000 Australians visit a chiropractor each week, with increasing demand for holistic, non-invasive healthcare options to help manage musculoskeletal conditions.

Following nearly three decades of Spinal Health Week campaigns, the ACA has now launched National Spinal Health Month to continue promoting better spinal health across the community.

During June, we at Connect Chiropractic are encouraging the local community to join the “spinal health movement” by taking steps to support a healthy spine and healthy mind.

Connect Chiropractic is located in Noble Park, serving patients across Melbourne’s south-east including Dandenong, Springvale, Keysborough, Cranbourne, Clayton, and surrounding suburbs. Our team provides chiropractic assessment and care for back pain, neck pain, and musculoskeletal conditions for patients of all ages, from working adults managing chronic pain to seniors seeking better mobility and independence.

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Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Spine and a Healthier Mind

Your spinal health and mental wellbeing are more connected than most people realise, and small, early steps can make a significant difference.

Whether you’re managing persistent back pain, noticing signs of reduced mobility, or simply want to be proactive about your long-term health, our team at Connect Chiropractic is here to help. Book a spinal health assessment online, or call us on (03) 9512 5882 to speak with one of our chiropractors. Your spine supports everything you do, so let’s keep it that way.