Sports Vision

Research has indicated that optimal visual correction can improve sporting performance. During exercise it has been demonstrated that there is a reduction in the pressure inside the eye and possibly corneal oedema (cloudy front window of the eye) from an increase in lactic acid and a decrease in glucose in the blood.

Surveys have shown that around 50% of sportsmen and women, including top ranked players, have never had an eye examination. However, when asked, most agreed that vision is important in their sport. Research from the Olympic Games suggests that up to 30% of elite athletes compete with visual problems, (a similar figure to that of drivers failing the number plate test).

The average person uses only about 50% of the potential of their visual system probably due to the sedentary way of life. Many athletes do not think they have the time to spend on their vision and most are unaware that their performance would improve if they were to put in the time.

In most sports, success is achieved by accurately made decisions based on information obtained by vision as 85-90% of an athlete's sensory input is visual. To be competitive in any sport it is vital to achieve the best possible performance from the whole body — including your eyes. However, research at the Olympic Games has consistently shown that over one fifth of athletes have visual problems. Few realise their eyes are in danger of being injured while playing sport. Eye protection is available but few choose to wear it.

Proper attention to vision in sport ensures that:

• Both eyes are appropriately corrected and properly balanced
• The eyes are protected against trauma and non-ionising radiation
• Contrast is maximised
• Eye disease is avoided where possible, or recognised and treated

Sports Vision FAQs