The study criticizes current healthcare practices, such as opioid prescriptions and excessive imaging, which may inadvertently prolong work absences and worsen the problem due to a lack of evidence-based treatments.

It emphasizes the need for evidence-based care and suggests that promoting active management and self-care for back pain could help improve workforce participation and economic outcomes.

Globally, back pain is a major cause of disability and premature workforce exit, with data showing a 15.5% prevalence of work absence due to back issues.

Despite slow productivity growth over the past decade, advancements such as artificial intelligence are expected to boost productivity by over 4%, adding significant economic value.

A recent study from Monash University projects that by 2033, over 3.2 million Australians will suffer from chronic back problems, costing the economy more than $630 million annually and reducing GDP by 4.6%.

Currently, nearly 3 million Australians experience long-term back issues, which significantly impact workforce participation through early retirement, absences, and decreased productivity.

The research indicates that even a modest 10% reduction in long-term back pain prevalence could add approximately $41.4 billion to Australia's GDP over a decade.

Beyond healthcare costs, back pain leads to early retirement, work absences, and reduced productivity, which also cause financial stress for individuals.

Australian Productivity Commission chair Danielle Wood highlights that health issues like back pain are among the factors hindering productivity, alongside housing costs, climate change, and stagnant wages.