What’s the Most Effective Form of Myopia Control? Exploring the Options

At Parkside Eye Care, we work with families in Cary and surrounding communities to find personalized myopia control solutions. One of the most effective options we recommend is orthokeratology (Ortho-K)—a non-surgical treatment that corrects vision overnight, so kids can see clearly during the day without glasses or contacts.

Why Is Myopia Management Important?

Managing myopia isn’t just about achieving clear vision today—it’s about protecting long-term eye health. High myopia (a stronger prescription) is associated with an increased risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopic maculopathy. By slowing myopia progression in childhood, the risk of developing these complications is significantly reduced.
 

Options for Myopia Control

Ortho-K lenses are custom-designed, gas-permeable contact lenses worn while sleeping. They gently reshape the cornea overnight, temporarily correcting nearsightedness so kids wake up with clear vision. Not only does this eliminate the need for daytime glasses or contacts, but studies also show that Ortho-K can significantly slow the progression of myopia over time.

This option is particularly beneficial for active kids who play sports or are involved in outdoor activities, as they won’t have to worry about losing or breaking glasses during the day.
 

Low-dose atropine eye drops are another treatment used to slow the progression of myopia. They work by relaxing the eye’s focusing mechanism and have been shown to reduce the rate of nearsightedness progression. While atropine doesn’t correct vision on its own (glasses or contacts are still needed), it’s often recommended in combination with other myopia control methods.
 

Encouraging outdoor play and reducing excessive screen time can also help manage myopia. Studies suggest that spending at least 90 minutes a day outside may reduce the risk of myopia worsening. While this alone isn’t a treatment, it’s a simple and effective way to support eye health.
 

Why Families in Cary Are Choosing Ortho-K

For many children and teenagers in Cary, Ortho-K offers the best combination of freedom, effectiveness, and long-term myopia control. Parents love that their kids can enjoy clear vision without the hassle of glasses, while also benefiting from a proven method to slow down myopia progression.
 

At Parkside Eye Care, we take a customized approach to Ortho-K, ensuring each pair of lenses is tailored to your child’s unique eyes. Our team provides guidance and support every step of the way, from the initial fitting to follow-up visits, making the process smooth and stress-free for parents and kids alike.
 

Ready to Explore Myopia Control for Your Child?

If your child is struggling with nearsightedness, now is the time to take action. Myopia control isn’t just about clearer vision today—it’s about protecting your child’s long-term eye health.
 

Schedule your child’s eye exam with Parkside Eye Care to learn more about the benefits of Ortho-K for myopia management. Visit our office in Cary, North Carolina, or call (919) 883-9987 to book an appointment today.