Vision Therapy in Lacey

Scientific Research on Myopia Management

(360) 459-3333

Exploring the Science Behind Nearsightedness

Myopia, often known as nearsightedness, is a common vision disorder affecting millions worldwide. While genetics play a significant role, environmental factors contribute to its progression, with high myopia posing serious risks to eye health.

Researchers and clinicians worldwide are committed to finding solutions to tackle the rising myopia epidemic. Scientific research and clinical trials deepen our understanding of this condition and allow for effective management strategies.

smiling boy with toys


squinting woman adjusting glasses

Understanding Myopia Progression

Myopia typically results from axial lengthening in the eye. To address this, researchers have focused on several promising areas:

  • Spectacle Correction

    Glasses have long been studied to inhibit myopia progression. However, while some designs have shown promise, not all have been clinically effective. Recent advancements like the Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) spectacle lens, designed to induce myopic defocus, have yielded encouraging results. Reducing axial length by 0.30 mm over two years offers a potential solution for myopia control, particularly for children.

  • Outdoor Sunlight

    Increasing outdoor time during school has shown a modest but tangible effect on reducing myopia progression. Studies suggest that 40 extra minutes of outdoor exposure daily can make a significant difference. However, the implementation has been challenging, and more research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact across diverse populations.

  • Low-dose Atropine

    Low-dose atropine treatment has gained popularity, particularly after studies like the Atropine for the Treatment of Myopia (ATOM) series. While the 0.01% concentration has shown effectiveness, the Low-Concentration Atropine for Myopia Progression (LAMP) study suggests that higher concentrations may offer more profound results. Atropine is easy to implement, especially for young children, with minimal side effects. However, long-term data regarding potential ocular toxicity is still pending.


Controlling Myopia with Contact Lenses

In recent years, contact lenses have emerged as a promising avenue for myopia control:

  • Orthokeratology

    Orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, have shown promise in reducing axial elongation by 55% after 24 months. However, these lenses have limitations and may not correct higher levels of myopia.

  • MiSight Contact Lenses

    The FDA-approved daily wear MiSight lens is a breakthrough in myopia control. Its dual-focus design creates myopic defocus and has demonstrated a reduction in myopia progression and axial length. This daily disposable lens offers an alternative to ortho-k, providing clear vision during the day without lenses. The ongoing MiSight clinical trial aims to provide more insights into its long-term efficacy and safety.

Patient Reviews
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411 Reviews
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- Nov. 27, 2024
Oh my God that Dr Michelle is always happy and she makes me happy she is energized I really like her... and I would recommend her to anyone
- Nov. 13, 2024
Been going here for years because of the excellent service and friendly personnel.
- Nov. 10, 2024
Dr. Michelle Durham is genuine and engages with you.
- Nov. 08, 2024
Hawks Prairie Vision Clinic gives wonderful service. The technicians and doctors have taken great c... are with my eyes for years! I sincerely recommend the clinic. They have a nice selection of frames, as well.
- Nov. 06, 2024
I'm so glad this place exists...
- Oct. 23, 2024
Great staff and eye Dr took time to listen and treat me correctly. I felt very comfortable. Definite... ly will go back and use them for eye care needs.
- Oct. 20, 2024
We have been going here for years, and we will never go anywhere else. The Dr. is amazingly accurate... and he is more than great with kids. My grandson is autistic so I thought it couldn't be done, he enjoyed his experience, and now he is doing better in school. The place is clean and the staff is great! Even with my insurance they don't treat us any different. Love, love, love.
- Oct. 18, 2024
Wonderful experience with Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic -from check-in to final prescription for glas... ses.
- Oct. 11, 2024
Very welcoming and personable .
- Oct. 06, 2024
I have found Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic to have quality vision help and great choose of glasses an... d prices. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I will be going back as long as I live in the sound area.
- Oct. 01, 2024
Very professional, they made my 5 year old comfortable and talked her through which frame fit best.
- Oct. 01, 2024
Friendly staff,professional and on tone.
- Sep. 27, 2024
Timely and thorough examination. Been going here for 10 years
- Sep. 26, 2024
They were prompt, friendly and professional
- Sep. 23, 2024
Awesome people and great quality glasses
- Sep. 16, 2024
Melissa helped me fix my glasses that I had stretched the arms on, so that they would sit on my face... properly. She did a great job, and it didn’t cost anything! Front desk staff is friendly and helpful, as well.
- Sep. 12, 2024
Small town feel with high-end quality. Everyone is friendly and professional. I have found my opht... halmology home.
- Sep. 12, 2024
Dr Durham and her staff are the very best! Super friendly, easy to talk to, and truly cares about th... eir patients.
- Sep. 11, 2024
Wife and I have been going for 5 years. Great very friendly clinic.
- Sep. 06, 2024
From setting appointment to Vision exam everyone was knowledgeable and caring!

View All 411 Reviews

Myopia Management in Lacey

Our optometry practice in Lacey

Photograph of Michelle  Durham
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • EyeMed
  • Medicare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Tricare
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • MetLife
  • Regence
  • Premera Blue Cross
  • First Choice Health
  • Providence Health Plan
  • Washington Apple Health Medicaid
  • Coordinated Care Ambetter
  • Shasta Health Insurance
  • United Healthcare

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Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic: Pioneering Myopia Management

There have been various scientific breakthroughs in myopia management. However, the choice of treatment depends on the child's age, preferences, and eye condition.

At Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic, we are committed to keeping up with the latest advances in myopia management research and providing you with the best possible care. Our top priority is your child's eye health. Visit us today and explore the latest advancements in myopia care for healthy eyes and clear vision.

(360) 459-3333