[Toronto, ON, October 3, 2023] – The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) is proud to recognize and support World Spine Day 2023 on October 16, 2023. This global initiative is led by the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) and calls for greater global commitments from governments, communities, and public health bodies to tackle spinal pain and disability. We invite Canadians across the country to join us in raising awareness about the importance of spinal health and advocating for preventive care measures on this significant day.
This year’s theme is “Move Your Spine” and it will focus on the diverse nature of spinal pain and disability at home, in the workplace, in schools and in our communities while addressing movement across the life course. Evidence has shown that immobility and lack of physical activity are contributors to spinal pain and disability. “Move Your Spine” will highlight ways in which all people, from all backgrounds can help their spines by staying mobile, avoiding physical inactivity, not overloading their spines, and adopting healthy habits such as weight loss and smoking cessation.
The spine is a crucial component of the musculoskeletal system, supporting posture, movement, and the protection of the central nervous system. Unfortunately, spinal disorders and related conditions are prevalent in our society, causing pain, disability, and a significant burden on healthcare resources. By prioritizing spinal health, we can reduce the prevalence of these conditions and improve the overall quality of life for Canadians.
- Over 11 million Canadians suffer from low back pain each year1.
- Musculoskeletal conditions alone account for 10.3% of the total economic burden of all illnesses2, including direct costs (i.e., treatment and rehabilitation) and indirect costs (i.e., lost productivity).
- Back pain results in one third of all lost time and has a direct impact on productivity34.
World Spine Day organizing committee co-chair, Dr Rebekah Wilks, said, “Public health initiatives like World Spine Day are critical in raising awareness, providing information and empowering the public to care for their spines. National and international back pain guidelines frequently highlight the need to remain active and avoid bedrest when suffering from back pain. This year, we want the world to move their spines!”
“The health of our spines and muscular, skeletal and nervous system directly impacts our physical and mental well-being, and it is crucial that individuals of all ages and backgrounds understand the significance of maintaining a healthy spine. On this World Spine Day, I hope to see Canadians across the country moving – And not just today, but everyday! We know that millions of Canadians suffer from back pain and other musculoskeletal-related issues every year, and Canadian chiropractors are here to support you with preventative and rehabilitative care that is drug-free and evidence-based,” said Dr. Ayla Azad, CEO of the CCA. “The CCA also has several free resources available to you on our website – including our Straighten Up video series and Find a Chiropractor near you map. Get moving, Canada!”
About the Canadian Chiropractic Association:
The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) is the national voice of more than 8,000 chiropractors – Canada’s trusted professionals for spine, muscle, and nervous system health. We treat an estimated 4.7 million Canadians annually – that’s 16 per cent of Canada’s adult population. Our profession is relied upon to diagnose the causes of spine, muscle, and nervous system pain, recommend evidence-based treatment options, then treat and prevent pain from returning.
REFERENCES
1. Canadian Orthopaedic Care Strategy Group. (2010). Building a Collective Policy Agenda for Musculoskeletal Health and Mobility.
2. Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Investing in Canada’s Future 2004-2005: Arthritis. Ottawa: CIHR; 2012 [updated 23 November 2006, 3 July 2012]; Retrieved from www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/documents/arthritis_mpkit_2005_e.pdf.
3. Cleland, J. Childs, J. Frtiz, J. Emberhart, S. Development of a clinical prediction rule for guiding treatment of a subgroup of patients with neck pain: use of thoracic spine manipulation, exercise, and patient education. Physical Therapy.2007 Jan;87(1):9-23
4. Lutteman, A., Jager, M., Griefahn, B. Preventing musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace. Protecting Workers’ Health Series No. 5.2003
-30-
Media Contact:
Simone Lai, Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Canadian Chiropractic Association