The Benefits of Ortho-K and CRT for Children: Controlling Myopia Progression
Myopia is a common refractive error that affects an increasing number of children worldwide. As a parent, you may have noticed your child squinting or struggling to see distant objects clearly. Myopia typically develops during childhood and can progress rapidly, leading to higher degrees of vision impairment if left unchecked.
Addressing myopia in children is crucial, as it can have far-reaching consequences if not properly managed. High myopia is associated with an increased risk of sight-threatening eye conditions, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts, later in life. By implementing effective myopia management strategies, you can help protect your child's vision and reduce the long-term risks associated with this condition.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) and Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) are non-surgical vision correction techniques that have emerged as promising options for myopia management in children. These innovative approaches involve the use of specialized contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye.
Ortho-K lenses are custom-fitted, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn while you sleep. The lenses gently and temporarily reshape the cornea, reducing or even eliminating the need for corrective eyewear during the day.
Ortho-K and CRT work by temporarily flattening the central part of the cornea, which reduces the eye's refractive power and corrects nearsightedness. This reshaping of the cornea also slows the progression of myopia in children by reducing the eye's axial length growth, a key factor in the development and worsening of myopia. By controlling the rate of axial length growth, Ortho-K can help prevent or slow down the progression of myopia in children.
Ortho-K offers several compelling benefits for children with myopia:
• Improved Visual Acuity: These vision correction techniques can provide clear, sharp vision during the day without the need for daytime corrective eyewear, such as glasses or contact lenses.
• Myopia Control: Ortho-K have been shown to effectively slow the progression of myopia in children, reducing the risk of developing higher degrees of nearsightedness.
• Convenience and Flexibility: The overnight wear of Ortho-K lenses allows for uninterrupted daily activities, as children can enjoy clear vision without the hassle of removing and inserting lenses during the day.
• Reduced Dependence on Eyewear: By slowing the progression of myopia, Ortho-K can potentially reduce the need for stronger corrective lenses over time, providing a more stable vision correction solution.
• Improved Self-Confidence: The ability to enjoy clear vision without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses can boost a child's self-confidence and social interactions.
• Safety: Ortho-K and CRT are non-surgical, reversible treatment that do not involve any permanent changes to the eye's structure, making them a safe and suitable option for children.
As a parent, you have the opportunity to empower your child with effective myopia management strategies like Ortho-K and CRT. By taking proactive steps to control the progression of myopia, you can help safeguard your child's vision and reduce the long-term risks associated with this condition.
Contact Vision Source Mandeville today to learn more about Ortho-K and CRT, and how these innovative vision correction techniques can benefit your child. Visit our office in Mandeville, Louisiana, or call (985) 300-5700 to book an appointment today.