Tech Neck: Prevent, Reduce, Reverse.

Not too long ago someone pointed out to me that I had a case of “tech-neck” to which I responded “a case of what?”, she proceeded to say “Yes! Look at the three horizontal lines on your neck…”

We live in a tech world, where we spend anywhere from two to six hours a day texting and reading on our smart phones, tablets, and computers—usually in a neck-bent position. Over the course of a year, this adds up to…you do the math! Enter “tech-neck”, the term coined to describe the electronics-induced condition causing alignment issues, fine lines and wrinkles on your neck, not to mention stiff pain and serious health conditions. Let’s discuss the cosmetic side of this problematic posture, as it is one of my symptoms and I'm eager to find ways to prevent, reduce, and reverse these unpleasant lines. And, yes, the lines are definitely there.

What causes tech-neck?

Looking down at your cell phone, tablet, or other wireless devices too frequently and for sustained periods of time while unaware of poor posture. When your head is tilted downward at a 45-degree angle, such as while typing, texting, or scrolling through Instagram, causes physical stress on the neck area. This repetitive squishing of the skin into the folds of the neck, keeps your muscles in an untoned state—loosening neck muscles that support the prevention of wrinkles and fine lines. 

How do I prevent tech neck?

1. Raise the phone (and other devices) up closer to eye level so the head doesn’t have to be tilted forward.
2. Set a device timer—this will help you limit your screen time and allow for frequent technology breaks. 
3. Try the Text Neck app. It offers immediate feedback about your posture. 
4. Be aware of your posture—stand up straight, chin up, shoulders down, tailbone tucked in, core engaged. 
5. Practicing pilates and yoga regularly will help you bring awareness and help you correct your posture. 

I already have it, how do I make it better?

Luckily, improvement can be had without undergoing an invasive treatment. 

1. Gua Sha neck facials every day. Gua Sha offers an instant facelift so don’t forget your neck this time around!
2. Do 5-10 minutes of the following yoga postures daily: downward-facing dog, cat-cow, padahastasana, bow pose and camel pose. 
3. Many doctors turn to Ultherapy ($1,500-$2,000), relying on ultrasound heat to stimulate the skin to regenerate collagen. 
4. For the lovers of prescription-strength retinoids, the same powerful solution in a jar can be used on your neck (Renova, Retin-A). 
5. Last but quick and effective—fillers. They provide instant gratification, anything from Restylane to Botox can also be injected in your neck. 

For now and until I’m done breastfeeding, i'll be trying the natural approach, however the other options are not completely off the table! I’ll keep you guys posted throughout the year.