Can I improve my nearsightedness through eye exercises?
September 18, 2022 | 35,00 EUR | answered by Tobias Helbig
Dear ophthalmologist,
My name is Martina Meyer and I have been suffering from shortsightedness for several years. Lately, I have noticed that my vision is getting worse and even with my glasses, I can't see as well as before. I am worried that my shortsightedness could further deteriorate and I wonder if it is possible to improve my vision through eye exercises.
I have heard about various eye exercises that are said to help strengthen vision and reduce shortsightedness. For example, the so-called "Bates method" is said to help relax the eye muscles and improve vision. Regular training with a vision training device or focusing on distant objects are also believed to strengthen the eye muscles and improve vision.
I would like to know if it is actually possible to improve my shortsightedness through eye exercises. Are there scientific evidence for the effectiveness of such exercises? And if so, which exercises would be most effective for me? Should I take other measures in addition to the exercises to improve my vision, such as getting customized glasses or contact lenses?
I look forward to your professional assessment and thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Martina Meyer
Dear Mrs. Meyer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your nearsightedness and the possibility of improving it through eye exercises. It is understandable that you are concerned about your eyesight and are looking for ways to strengthen it.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that nearsightedness is usually due to a change in the shape of the eye, where the image is focused in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in distant objects appearing blurry. While eye exercises can help strengthen the eye muscles and improve eye mobility, they generally cannot change the underlying cause of nearsightedness.
The so-called "Bates method" and other eye exercises have long been controversial, and there is no clear scientific evidence of their effectiveness in treating nearsightedness. Some people do report an improvement in their eyesight through such exercises, but this may also be due to a placebo effect.
It is advisable to consult an experienced ophthalmologist regarding your vision problems, as they can conduct a thorough examination to determine the exact cause of your deteriorating eyesight. In some cases, adjusting your glasses or contact lenses may be necessary to improve your vision.
However, there are some general measures you can take to maintain healthy eyes and possibly support your eyesight. These include taking regular breaks from screen work, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Overall, it is important to find individual solutions for your vision problems and rely on the expertise of an ophthalmologist. I am happy to answer any further questions you may have and wish you all the best for your eye health.
Sincerely,
Tobias Helbig, Ophthalmologist
