Health & Fitness

Millions of people across the world experience vision problems, and are prescribed correctional lenses suitable to them. Some people have no problem wearing glasses or contacts, and have perhaps been wearing them all their lives. Others cannot wear contacts at all, and may dislike wearing glasses. What are the alternatives for these people? Most likely, an ophthalmologist would recommend Lasik or refractive surgery for the proper candidates.

There are actually a variety of eye surgeries that can improve vision and eliminate the need for correctional lenses. However, not everyone is a prime candidate for surgery. Also, surgery can be very expensive and may not be covered by eye health insurance. Also, not all surgeries are successful, they can have serious side effects and lead to discomfort, and some have very high risks involved.

Another alternative to glasses or contacts are vision therapy programs offered by ophthalmologists. These type of programs are most commonly available to young people or kids, but they can also be attended by adults. They involve the doctor using different techniques, tools and exercises to encouraged improved eyesight. Vision therapy, however, focuses mostly on behavioral studies of developing eyes, such as for children. This may not be a probable solution for everyone.

Home Eye Therapy as an Alternative
Another option is for patients to try the eye exercises suggested by holistic methodologists of vision improvement. These type of programs encourage the strengthening of eye muscles by simply doing a few short eye movement exercises a day. There are also relaxation techniques and vision training skills taught through these programs in order to reverse vision problems. Some of them are based on the Bates Method, which was developed in the early 1900s.