Scleral Lenses and Sports: Are They a Game-Changer for Athletes with Vision Issues?

For athletes, having clear, sharp vision is not just a matter of convenience—it can be the difference between victory and defeat. It is crucial for athletes to see clearly, to judge distances accurately, to anticipate movements, and to react quickly. However, the traditional methods for correcting vision issues, like glasses or standard contact lenses, may not always be suitable for the dynamic, high-impact world of sports. This is where scleral lenses come into play.

What are scleral lenses?

Scleral lenses are a type of gas-permeable contact lens that vaults over the cornea and rests on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. This design allows for a natural tear layer between the lens and the cornea, providing excellent comfort and visual acuity. Scleral lenses are larger in diameter than regular contact lenses, which helps keep them in place, even during intense physical activity.

Scleral lenses are often recommended for individuals who have irregular corneas or severe dry eyes, conditions that may not be effectively managed with standard contact lenses.

How do scleral lenses work?

Scleral lenses work by creating a smooth, regular surface over the irregular cornea, providing clearer vision than what might be achieved with glasses or regular contact lenses.

The lens's vaulted design ensures that it doesn't touch the cornea, reducing the risk of discomfort or damage caused by the lens rubbing against the corneal surface. The space between the scleral lens and the cornea is filled with a saline solution, which helps to improve visual clarity and comfort. Because of their size and design, scleral lenses are less likely to be dislodged during physical activity, making them an excellent option for athletes.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Athletes

For athletes with vision issues, scleral lenses offer numerous benefits that can enhance their performance. One of the major benefits is improved visual acuity. Because scleral lenses create a new, regular refractive surface, they can provide sharper, clearer vision than glasses or regular contact lenses, especially for individuals with irregular corneas.

Another significant benefit is stability. Due to their large diameter and design, scleral lenses are less likely to move or dislodge during physical activity. This stability allows athletes to focus on their performance without worrying about their lenses shifting or falling out.

Scleral lenses also offer superior comfort. The space between the lens and the cornea filled with saline solution helps to keep the eye hydrated and comfortable, reducing the risk of dry eye symptoms that can impair an athlete's vision and performance.

 

Are scleral lenses a game-changer for athletes with vision issues?

Scleral lenses can indeed be a game-changer for athletes with vision issues. By providing enhanced visual acuity, stability, and comfort, these lenses can significantly improve an athlete's performance on the field, court, track, or in the pool. While they may not be the right solution for everyone, athletes who struggle with vision issues should consider scleral lenses as a potential tool to help them compete at their highest level.

If you are an athlete with vision issues, discover how scleral lenses can be a game-changer for improving vision and performance. Visit See Breeze Optometry in our Huntington Beach or Westminster, California, offices. Call (714) 964-3811 or (714) 848-0028 to schedule an appointment today.