Does eye movement exercise that rolls the eyes left and right improve vision? Asked an ophthalmologist

Eye exercises are not effective for improving vision, preventing cataracts, or relieving eye fatigue.

Moving the eyes through eye exercises does not improve eye function. Dr. Kim Kyun-hyung, director of Central Seoul Eye Clinic, said, "Eye exercises are one of the folk remedies and lack scientific evidence," and "such actions only provide temporary visual improvement." When looking far away and then close up, the eye's ciliary muscles, which are responsible for focusing, are used. These focusing muscles are closely related to vision; when they weaken, vision deteriorates and presbyopia occurs. Dr. Kim Kyun-hyung stated, "The only time vision improves or focus is better is when the focusing muscles are used during eye exercises," and "it is fundamentally impossible to improve vision." The eye rolling movement can strengthen the external eye muscles, including the superior rectus, inferior rectus, medial rectus, and inferior oblique muscles. However, it has no effect on ▲improving vision ▲eye aging ▲preventing cataracts ▲alleviating dry eye syndrome ▲reducing eye fatigue.

◇For eye health, apply warm compresses and avoid rubbing your eyes

So, what are some good habits for eye health? Director Kim Kyun-hyung said, "Applying warm compresses helps secrete oils from the oil glands that produce tears, which is good for improving dryness and fatigue in the eyes." The oil glands secrete fats from the eyelids to form a tear film and remove foreign substances. When applying a warm compress, the pack should be gently placed over the eyes. It is also important not to rub the eyes. Director Kim explained, "Many people rub their eyes when vision becomes blurry, or when their eyes feel stiff and itchy," adding, "This weakens the nerve tissues of the eyes and can cause the retina to tear or develop holes." Especially nowadays, with frequent use of air conditioning and high humidity, more people may experience itchy eyes due to rhinitis. However, rubbing itchy eyes can lead to retinal tears or vitreous floaters, and in severe cases, bleeding can occur. Retinal tears are conditions where the retina tears and forms a hole at the area where the retina and vitreous (the transparent substance filling the inside of the eye) are attached. Vitreous floaters are symptoms where one feels like dust or bugs are floating in front of the eyes. Kim emphasized, "Eye exercises or eye massages involve pressing on the eyes, so it is better not to do them."