05/06/2026
Back pain is often assumed to worsen with age. But new data from the Pureprofile 2026 Spinal Health Survey reveals something less expected: the mental health toll of back pain peaks among younger working-age Australians.
Among Australians aged 31 to 40 with back pain, 56.0% report a moderate, significant or extreme mental health impact, the highest of any age group. In the 25 to 30 age group, 55.6% report the same. Three in four people across both groups experience at least some psychological impact from their back pain.
These are Australians building careers, raising families and managing financial pressures, while back pain adds a significant and often unacknowledged mental load.
The data also reveals concerning patterns among younger Australians:
• Women aged 25 to 30 experience the largest gender gap of any age group, with 63.5% reporting a moderate-to-extreme mental health impact, compared with 44.7% of men.
• Back pain prevalence is already extremely high, with 95.4% of 18 to 24 year-olds having experienced back pain in their lifetime.
• Despite this burden, young Australians aged 18 to 24 are the least likely of any age group to seek professional treatment, with many self-managing through over-the-counter medication.
• Chronic pain is already emerging, affecting 26.0% of 18 to 24 year-olds and 33.0% of 31 to 40 year-olds with back pain.
Early, evidence-based healthcare matters. The biopsychosocial model of care addresses both the physical and psychological dimensions of back pain and is most effective when applied early.
For young Australians, back pain is not just a health issue. It is a quality of life issue, with consequences that can compound over time.
This Spinal Health Month, if back pain is affecting your mental health, adjust your thinking. Consult a chiro and get back to feeling good.
Visit www.spinalhealth.org.au for free resources.
Because a healthy spine supports a healthy mind.
