Do Eye Exercises Improve Vision?

The effectiveness of eye exercises for improving vision has been a subject of debate for two centuries. Optometrists and researchers hold conflicting theories about the ability of certain exercises to correct vision problems. Several books and websites sell exercise sets that they claim will improve, if not cure, your vision problems. While research shows improvements in certain areas, eye exercises may not affect some conditions.

History

• In the 1800's, a physician named William Bates invented a set of eye exercises aimed at curbing such vision impairments as glaucoma, nearsightedness, farsightedness and cataracts. His suggestions included staring directly at the sun, reading in dim light and other controversial ideas. Though many of his specific ideas were rejected, the notion of vision-improving eye exercises continue to gain popularity as well as criticism.

Types

• The most common forms of eye conditions stem from the lens' inability to properly bend rays of light. In nearsightedness, light rays fall short of the retina, which causes the experience of only being able to maintain focus on nearby objects. Farsighted patients have just the opposite condition; the light rays go past the retina and only faraway objects are visible. Other eye conditions involve eye coordination and control, focus and problems due to damage, disease or degeneration.

Treatment

• Many optometrists and physicians promote self-directed vision improvement exercises that include biofeedback, eye massage, muscle relaxation and eye-coordination activities. This type of visual training is advocated either in isolation or combined with weaker prescription lenses and nutritional supplements. Yoga and other holistic practices offer sets of eye movements and focusing exercises that aim to cleanse toxins and sharpen coordination and vision.

Research

• A study from the National Eye Institute (NEI) found that regular exercises improved certain eye muscle coordination disorders. The study found that patients were more likely to see improvements when they completed more exercises in a doctor's office and at home, rather than only exercising at home. This indicates that the process must be very precise and professional oversight is beneficial. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology task force on complementary therapy, "Visual training improves vision lost through disease processes such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy," yet found no positive effect on myopia. No evidence, and in some cases contradictory evidence, has been found to suggest that eye exercises make little to no improvement in conditions such as hyperopia, astigmatism, myopia, near or farsightedness.

Conclusions

• While eye exercises may have positive indications for eye problems involving coordination, focus, crossed or lazy eyes, problems that concern the improper bending of light rays may not be affected. Consult with a physician before attempting any new eye exercises to make sure that the formula is targeted for your condition and will not interfere with other treatments.