Lower Back Pain in Young Adults – What’s Causing It?
Lower back pain isn’t just a concern for older adults. More young people — including students, tradespeople, and office workers — are reporting persistent lower back issues. At Primal Chiro in Carlisle, we’re seeing this trend more often, and it’s backed by recent studies.
According to research published in The Lancet, low back pain is now the leading cause of disability globally, affecting individuals as young as their late teens and early 20s.¹
1. Poor Posture
Hours spent sitting — especially with a slouched spine or unsupported posture — increases the load on spinal discs and postural muscles. Over time, this contributes to joint stiffness and muscle fatigue.
The World Health Organization’s guidelines on sedentary behaviour highlight the risks of prolonged sitting for spinal and musculoskeletal health.²
2. Core Weakness
Many young adults have underdeveloped or inactive core muscles due to long periods of sitting and limited functional movement. Without a strong core, the lumbar spine compensates during basic tasks like bending or lifting.
3. Repetitive Lifting or Manual Work
Trades, hospitality, and retail jobs often require bending, lifting, or twisting — all of which can cause strain on the lower back if done repetitively or with poor technique.
A study in the Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation found that early exposure to physically demanding work increases the risk of lumbar strain in younger adults.³
4. Sedentary Lifestyle
A lack of daily movement weakens muscles and reduces joint mobility, making the spine more vulnerable to strain even during simple activities like walking, stretching, or standing.
When to Seek Chiropractic Care
It’s worth getting your spine assessed if your pain:
Has lasted more than a few days
Affects sleep, concentration, or daily activity
Radiates into the leg (sciatica-type symptoms)
Seems worse after sitting, lifting, or extended standing
How We Help at Primal Chiro
At our Carlisle chiropractic clinic, we provide:
Functional movement and spinal assessments
Chiropractic care to restore joint mobility
Soft tissue therapy and dry needling when needed
Advice on posture, lifting technique, and active recovery
Our focus is to help you move better — not just manage pain, but prevent it long-term.
Book a spinal screen today to get started on a care plan that fits your needs.
👉 Visit www.primalchiro.com.au
References:
Hartvigsen J, Hancock MJ, Kongsted A, et al. What low back pain is and why we need to pay attention. The Lancet. 2018.
World Health Organization. Guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour. WHO, 2020.
da Costa BR, Vieira ER. Risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation. 2010.
