Sunbury , Melton , do you work in gig work? Lets discuss why its hard on the body
- Julian Simpson
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read

The Data: Why Delivery Work is Hard on the Body
The recent study, which analysed data from over 150,000 workers, found that food delivery riders face an incredibly high burden of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs).
Because of long hours, repetitive motions, and the physical vibration of motorcycles or bikes, the body begins to break down. According to the research, here are the most common areas of injury for delivery professionals:
Lower Back Pain: 43% of workers (some studies show as high as 73%).
Shoulder Pain: 39% of workers.
Neck Pain: 30% of workers.
Upper Back Pain: 24% of workers.
Beyond muscle aches, the study highlighted a staggering 25% prevalence of road traffic accidents, often driven by "algorithmic pressure"—the need to meet tight deadlines that leads to risky riding and chronic fatigue.
Why Is This Happening?
The research points to several "structural vulnerabilities" in the gig economy that create a perfect storm for chronic pain:
1. Prolonged Static Posture
Sitting on a motorcycle or hunched over handlebars for an average of 7.9 to 10.2 hours a day leads to "postural fatigue." Your muscles lock into place, leading to the stiffness and restricted mobility we often see at our clinic.
2. Vibration Exposure
Constant exposure to vehicle vibration (especially on motorcycles) can lead to micro-trauma in the spinal discs and surrounding soft tissues.
3. The "Delivery Bag" Factor
Carrying heavy, often unevenly distributed loads on your back puts immense pressure on the thoracic spine and shoulders, contributing to the 24% prevalence of upper back pain found in the meta-analysis.
How Health Wise Chiropractic Supports Gig Workers
You don’t have to accept chronic pain as "part of the job." Based on the latest clinical findings, our approach to treating delivery-related injuries includes:
Spinal Alignment: Targeted adjustments to address the lower back and neck strain caused by hours on the road.
Soft-Tissue Therapy: Myofascial release to break up the tension in the shoulders and upper back.
Ergonomic Coaching: We provide personalised advice on how to adjust your riding posture and how to wear delivery gear to minimise spinal load.
Vibration Recovery: Specific stretches and exercises designed to counteract the effects of vehicle vibration on your nervous system.
Pro-Tips for the Road
If you’re out for a shift today, keep these research-backed tips in mind:
Micro-Stretches: Every 3 deliveries, take 60 seconds to do a standing "chest opener" stretch to counteract the hunched riding position.
Hydrate for the Discs: Your spinal discs need hydration to absorb the shock of the road. Drink water throughout your shift, not just at the end.
Check Your Bag: Ensure your delivery backpack is snug, and the weight is centred. A loose bag increases the shear force on your spine.
Expert Care for Our Local Drivers
Whether you are a full-time rider or doing this as a side hustle, your health is your most important asset. Don’t wait for a minor ache to become a road-blocking injury.
🟩 H2: When should you see a chiropractor for Relief?
You should consider seeing a chiropractor if:
Pain lasts longer than a few days
Movement is restricted
Pain is worsening
It’s affecting sleep or work
🟩 H2: How can chiropractic care help
At Health Wise Chiropractic, treatment may include:
Chiropractic adjustments
Soft tissue therapy
Dry needling (if applicable)
Postural correction
Rehabilitation exercises
🟩 H2: What to expect at Health Wise Chiropractic
Your first visit includes:
Full assessment
Posture analysis
Movement testing
Personalised treatment plan
We focus on both symptom relief and long-term correction.
🟩 H2: How long does it take to recover from Back Pain?
Recovery depends on:
Severity
Duration of symptoms
Compliance with care
Many patients begin to notice improvement within the first few visits.
🟩 H2: Local patients we help
We regularly help patients with work-related injuries from:
Sunbury
Diggers Rest
Gisborne
Riddells Creek
Melton
Strathtulloh
Cobblebank
Weirviews
Thornhill Park
🟩 H2: FAQs
Can a chiropractor help with work related injuries ?
Yes, chiropractic care focuses on improving joint movement, reducing muscle tension, and restoring function. Health Wise Chiropractic does this by offering our unique services of Chiropractic care with Massage, Dry needling, cupping and shockwave therapy
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on the severity and duration of your condition.
We have exclusive wellness packages to suit any of your health goals, which will help you complete your health plan.
Do I need a referral?
No, you can book directly with our clinic.
You can book online or by phone
🟩 H2: Book an appointment
If you're dealing with [condition], our team at Health Wise Chiropractic in Sunbury is here to help.
Reviewed by Dr Julian Simpson, Chiropractor at Health Wise Chiropractic, Sunbury 21 Powellet Street, Sunbury & 131 Wembley Avenue, Strathtulloh
At Health Wise Chiropractic, we regularly treat patients with work-related injuries, helping them return to work, sport, and daily activities pain-free.
reference
Alrashidi Y, Sriram S, Beek MA, Fadlalmola HA, Albadrani M. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among gig-based food delivery workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health. 2026 Mar 23;14:1788523. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1788523. PMID: 41948023; PMCID: PMC13050918.



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