Nearsightedness in children is a prevalent condition that affects a significant number of children across the globe. Nearsightedness is characterized by difficulty in seeing objects at a distance, while close objects are viewed clearly. Ortho-K presents a promising solution to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.
What is Ortho-K?
Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a non-surgical procedure that uses specially designed contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors. These lenses are typically worn overnight and removed in the morning, allowing for clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
Ortho-K has been effectively used to treat conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. However, in recent years, Ortho-K has gained considerable attention for its potential to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.
Ortho-K is FDA approved and is considered a safe procedure when properly supervised by an eye doctor. It's crucial to remember that Ortho-K requires regular follow-up visits to the eye doctor to ensure that the lenses are fitting correctly and the eyes are healthy.
How Ortho-K Works to Slow Nearsightedness Progression
Ortho-K works on the principle of corneal reshaping. The specially designed lenses apply gentle pressure on the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, altering its shape. This change in shape allows light to focus directly on the retina, correcting vision.
Research has shown that peripheral retinal defocus might contribute to eye growth and progression of myopia. By reshaping the cornea, Ortho-K lenses alter the way light is focused on the peripheral retina, which is believed to slow down the elongation of the eyeball - a key factor in myopia progression.
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Ortho-K in slowing down the progression of myopia in children. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Ophthalmology found that Ortho-K significantly reduced myopia progression by about 45% in children compared to conventional eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Advantages of Ortho-K for Children
Ortho-K offers several advantages for children. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for children to have clear vision without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. This can be particularly beneficial for children who participate in sports or other physical activities where glasses can be inconvenient or a potential hazard.
Secondly, Ortho-K can contribute to a better quality of life. Studies suggest that children who use Ortho-K have a more positive self-perception, particularly in terms of their academic and athletic capabilities, compared to those who wear glasses.
Consult Your Optometrist About Ortho-K Today
Ortho-K presents an effective solution to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. It not only offers the convenience of clear daytime vision without glasses but also contributes to long-term eye health by mitigating the risks associated with high myopia.
For more information on how Ortho-K can help slow the progression of nearsightedness in children, visit Family Vision Solutions at our Spring, Texas, office. Call (713) 349-0224 to schedule an appointment today.
