Eye Exercises to Help Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease characterized by increased eye pressure, reduced blood flow, and loss of vision. Many treatments are available, including medication, to help relieve the effects. Exercise is also a good way to reduce eye pressure and increase blood flow. Doing some sort of activity daily can greatly reduce your occurrences of glaucoma symptoms.

Isometric

• In isometric exercises, muscles are tensed and held in place, maintaining tension. These are good for patients experiencing a limited range of motion. An example would be to imagine you are pushing against a brick wall. Tension develops in the eye muscles, but there is no actual physical movement. If you suffer from high blood pressure, you should not do this type of exercise as the increased tension can raise blood pressure.

Isotonic

• Isotonic exercises work to strengthen eye muscles. An example would be lifting weights or dumbbells. Yes, lifting weights can, in fact, improve your eye health. This type of exercise causes muscles to contract and work against a fixed load. Isotonic exercises are the most commonly used in rehabilitative therapy.

Aerobics

• Aerobic exercise has been found to cause significant reduction in eye pressure. It can also improve blood flow to the retina and optic nerve. A brisk walk for 20 minutes four times a week is an example of aerobic exercise that almost anyone can do regardless of age and ability level. Biking, jogging, swimming, or taking actual aerobics classes are other options.