Perth FIFO Worker Chiro for Neck and Back Pain

Perth FIFO Worker Chiro for Neck and Back Pain

The Boom of FIFO Work in WA

The resources sector is currently booming in Western Australia, and we’re seeing a large number of FIFO, DIDO, and offshore workers. A 2018 report (1) identified at least 60,000 FIFO workers in WA—and it’s likely that number is even higher today.

With the rise of FIFO and resource-related roles, more patients are presenting to our clinic with pain, injuries, and discomfort linked to FIFO work—especially due to long swings and extended ergonomic strain.

Common Pain and Injury Problems in Perth FIFO Workers

• Lower back pain – Often from prolonged sitting, machinery operation, and jobs requiring repetitive twisting and bending (e.g. shot firer or surface crew roles).
• Neck, upper back tension, and headaches – Commonly linked to shift changes, poor sleep setups, long swings, and stress.
• Knee and hip pain – Frequently due to prolonged standing, lifting, twisting, and repetitive static postures, especially in by-phone or desk-based site roles.
  

Perth FIFO Healthcare Challenges 

We love looking after our FIFO patients during R&R, but there are unique challenges when it comes to managing treating and maximising recovery and good treatment outcomes:

• Irregular rosters and long periods away.

• Limited opportunity to attend appointments while in Perth.
  

• Time constraints on-site due to long shifts, limiting rehab opportunities.
  

• Physical and mental fatigue from demanding workloads.
  

• Ongoing strain from repetitive job roles and positions.

• Limited access to healthcare (Chiro & Physio) whilst away on site

5 Tips to Get the Best Results from your Treatment as a Perth FIFO Worker Chiro for Neck and Back Pain

1. Be Organised and Book in Advance

It’s tough when a patient walks in with a complex issue the day before flying back out. We might not have enough time to provide effective care, leaving you working in pain with limited support.

Top tip: Book treatment for the start of your R&R. This gives time for follow-up appointments. Even better—schedule your next R&R visit before you head back to site so it’s locked in.

2. Stick With Your Rehab Exercises

We get it—time is limited on-site. But to counter the lack of consistent hands-on care, completing your prescribed rehab exercises is critical.

Chat to your practitioner about what’s realistic:

• Can you exercise in your room?

• Do you have access to a gym or outdoor space?

We can text or email your plan, or set you up in a PhysiApp program, so you can view the exercises and technique videos directly on your phone.

3. Keep Moving While on Site

A common question: “I’m already active at work—why do I need more movement?”
The answer: your body is usually stuck in repetitive patterns with limited variation.

Solution: Add general movement—walking, gym, light cardio, yoga, or Pilates—to distribute load, promote recovery, and reduce tension.

Start small: aim for 30 minutes of gentle movement every second day. Bonus points if you get a colleague involved for accountability.

4. Manage Lifestyle Factors While Working Away

FIFO work can impact your overall health:

• Poor sleep
• High stress
• Limited food options
• Inconsistent exercise routines

But small, consistent changes can go a long way. Aim for:

• 7+ hours of sleep

• Reducing alcohol intake

• Healthier meal choices when possible

There’s strong evidence linking better sleep, stress, and nutrition with reduced pain and faster recovery—don’t underestimate the basics.

5. Reach Out If You Need Help

Pain flared up on-site? Unsure about your exercises? Just need advice?
Don’t wait—we’re here to help.

Our team is happy to provide support between appointments, especially for FIFO patients who may not be able to visit the clinic for a while. Just send us an email and we’ll get back to you.

We’re hear to help for Perth FIFO Worker Chiro for Neck and Back Pain!

Just because you work FIFO and perform physically repetitive tasks doesn’t mean you have to live with pain.

At Fortitude Chiropractic, we’re here to support your health both on and off-site with practical, effective care tailored to your schedule.

Contact us today or book your first appointment online to get started on your way to relief!

Reference:

1. The West Australian. (n.d.). Striking the balance for distance workers. Towards2030. Retrieved June 23, 2025, from https://towards2030.thewest.com.au/striking-the-balance-for-distance-workers/

Related Blogs