Social media and the internet blamed for rise in number of teens with pain issues more associated with middle age

GROWING numbers of Queensland teenagers are developing ailments normally associated with middle age in a trend that has shocked health care professionals.

TEXT thumb and swipe finger are high-tech ailments sending Queensland teenagers to hand exercise classes.

As new Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows that teens spend 18 hours per week on the internet, body movement experts are reporting a rising number of kids with aches and pains similar to those in middle-age.

Many have no hand or wrist strength, distorted fingers and weakened shoulders.

The ABS research shows that handheld devices are the go-to for 86 per cent of households with children under 15.

Carla Mullins, who runs Body Organics in Brisbane — a group of body mechanic gurus including physiotherapists, podiatrists, pilates teachers and osteopaths — started up the classes for kids a few months ago.

Twelve-year-olds Mia Blight and Alice Harries practise hand exercises with instructor Tarryn Byron which may be useful in preventing pain from overuse of mobile phones in the future. Picture: Tim Marsden

“I was shocked to see that young people were getting similar shoulder pain as middle-aged Queenslanders. Slumped posture over computers leads to problems in the neck and jaw.

By leaning into the screens there is evidence of pectoral muscle weakening and constricting of breathing. This can lead to heightened anxiety,” said the 15-year pilates teaching veteran.

“We need our hands to grip, pinch, knead, carry and these things are all being hampered by repetitive use of technology,” she said.

Brisbane’s Mia Blight and Alice Harries are reaping the benefits.

“I must admit I feel my hand joints are looser,” Mia said.

Alice suffers from a sore neck due to bad posture.

The new ABS research shows that teenagers last year most commonly went online for social networking — 91 per cent of their online time — followed by entertainment opportunities and formal education activities