Aussies Urged To Brush Up On Spine Health Knowledge

WORLD SPINE DAY SATURDAY OCT 16, 2010

Aussies Urged to Brush Up On Spine Health Knowledge

Saturday October 16 is World Spine Day and the Chiropractors' Association of Australia (CAA) is urging Australians to brush up on their spine health knowledge.

"The spine is one of the most underrated parts of the body," said CAA spokesperson, Dr Billy Chow.

This is reinforced by the fact that CAA member chiropractors find that around 70 per cent of new chiropractic patients don't understand the critical role the spine plays to protect the spinal cord, which connects the brain to every cell, tissue and organ in the body.

And, the CAA believes that the lack of understanding in the greater population is even more widespread.

"The fact is, spinal health is the key to a healthy nervous system, but most people don't appreciate the link until it's too late, taking their spine for granted," Dr Chow explained.

"For most of us, it's a case of out of sight, out of mind, until someone experiences pain."

The moving bones of the spine protect the intricate communication pathways of the spinal cord and nerve roots. If these nervous system pathways are impaired, malfunction of the tissue and organ function throughout the body can result.

"Unfortunately, pain is usually the last sign of an underlying problem that may have been present in the body for some time," Dr Chow said.

Back-related issues are widespread in Australia.

According to a recent survey conducted on behalf of the CAA, nearly 80 per cent of Australians suffer from back pain, with the most common causes perceived as injury, lifting and poor
posture.

"In the same way that you see a dentist for regular dental health check-ups, it makes sense to pay attention to your spine and consult an expert for regular check-ups before an underlying problem becomes a major issue," Dr Chow advised.

"Every minute of every day your spine works to support you as you walk, work, sit, play and exercise.

"Even when you are being inactive, lounging in front of the TV for example, your spine is still working, so don't take it for granted treat it with the respect it deserves. Put quite simply, a healthy spine, means a healthier life."

Chiropractors are five year university trained, government regulated and registered healthcare professionals who specialise in the diagnosis and management of spinal health related problems.

The Chiropractors' Association of Australia provides a range of health information and resources to help Australians better manage their spinal health, including the popular exercise program Straighten Up Australia (available at www.chiropractors.asn.au) and a dedicated posture website (www.whatsyourposture.com.au).

About the Chiropractors' Association of Australia
The Chiropractors' Association of Australia (National) Limited (CAA) is the peak body representing chiropractors. An underlying principle of chiropractic is "healthy spine, healthier life". By offering expert, drug-free spinal health
care and lifestyle advice, chiropractors help Australians lead and maintain healthy lives. With over 2,700 members, the CAA is the largest chiropractic health body in Australia, and coordinates its efforts with its 8 autonomous CAA
state and territory organisations.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY:
Dr Billy Chow is available to discuss the issues associated with spine health this World Spine Day.

For further information or to request an interview please contact:
Kelly Ward at The Reputation Group
03 8638 2192
0407 860 834.

SOURCE:Chiropractors' Association of Australia