Are there exercises to reverse nearsightedness? Eye experts
say no
A number of do-it-yourself books and tapes are available online
and in stores that claim the ability to help people correct vision
problems without the use of glasses or contacts. These programs
tell users that vision can be corrected simply with the help of
eye exercises and special diets. But do these programs really work?
For example, are there exercises to reverse nearsightedness?
Correcting nearsightedness
Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a condition that occurs when the
eyeball is too long or the eye's focusing mechanism-the cornea and
lens-is too powerful. The result: People with this condition can
see clearly up close but not at a distance. Options for correcting
nearsightedness include corrective lenses, whether eyeglasses or
contacts, and surgery.
So, can nearsightedness be cured without the assistance of an eye
care professional? No. Though proponents of a variety of vision
correction programs claim the validity of their products, there
is a lack of research to support their claims. Claims that eye exercises
and certain diets can correct vision are scientifically unsupported.
As a result, eye care experts, from optometrists to eye surgeons,
maintain these programs don't work. There is the absence of reliable
research and evidence that eye exercises can reduce a patient's
need for corrective lenses. In addition, medical literature lacks
well-controlled clinical studies that support the claims.
What should you do?
If you have been diagnosed with nearsightedness, it's best to avoid
the do-it-yourself scams. The only way to correct your vision is
with contact lenses,
eyeglasses. Talk with your eye care professional to learn more.
For more information on vision correction, see product menu at
right.
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