Eye Evaluation and Rx: Should We Be Prescribing Exercise to Our Patients?

Eye evaluations go beyond correcting vision—they’re an opportunity for optometric physicians to consider the whole person. By understanding a patient’s lifestyle and wellness habits, we can ‘prescribe’ activities like exercise that support both ocular health and overall well-being. In today’s optometric practice, recommending physical activity isn’t just a health tip; it’s a key part of holistic eye care.

When conducting an eye evaluation, are we considering exercise as part of our «prescription» for eye health? Optometrists go beyond correcting vision—it’s about understanding each patient’s lifestyle, hobbies, and visual needs.

Unlike other fields that focus narrowly on specific ocular diseases, optometry looks at the person as a whole, aligning eye care with overall well-being. This holistic approach is where clinicians have the unique opportunity to discuss how physical activity can benefit eye health in ways that are both preventive and complementary to traditional treatments.

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The Value of Exercise for Eye Health

Exercise isn’t just good for the body; it profoundly affects eye health. Physical activity can significantly prevent and manage conditions like glaucoma, myopia, and dry eye. For optometric physicians, prescribing exercise, as part of a patient’s lifestyle can add meaningful benefits to their ocular health regimen. This broader approach helps reduce risk factors and promotes circulation, supporting overall eye health.

The Holistic Approach for an Eye Evaluation


In optometry, we see the individual, not just the eye condition. Unlike other healthcare fields that might focus solely on treating a single disease, our role includes understanding how a patient’s lifestyle and daily activities impact their visual health. This perspective allows us to make personalized recommendations, such as incorporating exercise, that can foster better ocular health. It’s a unique approach that sets optometry apart as a discipline.

Exercise and Specific Eye Conditions


Each eye condition has its own set of needs, and exercise can address many of these in preventive or supportive ways:

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  • Glaucoma: Moderate physical activity has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), making it a valuable preventive measure.
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  • Myopia: Increased outdoor activity, especially in children, has been linked to a lower risk of myopia development.
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  • Dry Eye: Regular exercise can improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve symptoms associated with dry eye.

Brief recommendations include yoga, brisk walking, and other low-impact activities that support eye health without causing undue stress on the ocular system.

Personal Perspective: The Link Between Exercise and Well-being


In my journey as an optometrist, I’ve found Iyengar yoga to be an invaluable practice for mental clarity and physical health. Incorporating physical activity into our daily routines helps us better understand its benefits firsthand, enabling us to confidently recommend it as a complement to eye care. This experience has reinforced my commitment to well-being and deepened my appreciation for exercise as a holistic health measure that I can share with my patients.

Optometry stands at the crossroads of vision care and lifestyle wellness. Collaborating with other healthcare practitioners can enhance our collective impact on patient health. Share your thoughts and experiences on how exercise makes a difference in your practice. Let’s strengthen our professional network through a shared commitment to eye health and well-being.