Bates method
The Bates method is an alternative approach to improving vision, developed in the early twentieth century by ophthalmologist William H. Bates. Bates proposed that many vision issues, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism, stem from chronic tension and strain on the eyes. He believed that through relaxation techniques and specific eye exercises, individuals could alleviate this tension, potentially restoring proper eye function and shape. Common exercises include techniques like "palming" (covering the eyes with palms), "sunning" (exposing closed eyelids to sunlight), and "shifting" (moving the eyes rapidly while closed).
While some proponents claim benefits from the Bates method for various eye conditions, scientific scrutiny has largely found no substantial evidence supporting its effectiveness. Studies, including those involving children with myopia, have reported mixed results, often showing no significant improvement in visual acuity. Furthermore, the physiological basis of Bates's claims, particularly regarding the shape of the eyeball, has been contradicted by modern research. Despite its controversial status and lack of scientific validation, the Bates method continues to attract interest from those seeking alternative treatments for vision correction. It is important for individuals considering this method to remain cautious and consult medical professionals for serious eye conditions.
Bates method
DEFINITION: The improvement of vision using natural eye exercises.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: Astigmatism, hyperopia, myopia, presbyopia
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Amblyopia, glaucoma, strabismus
Overview
In the early twentieth century, ophthalmologist William H. Bates proposed an alternative method for improving eyesight. Through his work, he concluded that most vision problems were caused by chronic tension and strain of the eyes.
Mechanism of Action
Bates claimed that the eyeball changes shape to maintain focus. He maintained that relaxation of the eye muscles using basic exercises removed the chronic tension that caused poor eyesight and helped preserve the correct shape of the eyeball.
Uses and Applications
Proponents of the Bates method claim that proper use can help eliminate conditions for which corrective lenses are normally prescribed, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The method has also improved more serious eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma,
Scientific Evidence
In his writings, Bates discusses several techniques of visual training that can help improve eyesight. He claims that covering the eyes gently with the palms of the hands (palming), forming mental images (visualization), moving the eyes back and forth rapidly while closed (shifting or swinging), central fixation (focusing on the center of an object instead of the whole object), and exposure of the eyes to sunlight (sunning) are the basic exercises necessary for maintaining good vision and correcting poor vision. It was later decided that sunning must be done with the eyelids closed.
In 1942, British writer Aldous Huxley reported that although his vision was far from normal, it had been improved using the Bates method. In 1983, a randomized controlled trial using the Bates method with myopic children in India over six months did not yield any significant improvement in vision. However, eye strain was relieved in many of the children.
Bates’s main physiological proposition that the eyeball changes shape to maintain focus has been contradicted by numerous laboratory tests. In 2004, the American Academy of Ophthalmology published its review of research involving the Bates method of visual training and found no evidence that such techniques objectively benefit eyesight. In some of the investigated cases, the visual acuity of nearsighted persons was affected, but it was affected both positively and negatively. Based on further research, this change in nearsightedness is not caused by any change in refractive error but is best explained by the improvement in interpreting blurred images and by the contact-lens effect, which is produced by changing amounts of moisture in the eye because of increased tear action.
Although the Bates method has been largely debunked in the twenty-first century and no scientific study backs its efficacy, some still choose this alternative vision treatment or variations. Any improvement these patients report is considered subjective and anecdotal.
Safety Issues
The exercises in the Bates method are generally safe as long as one does not expose one's eyes directly to sunlight. In some cases, applying the Bates method may prevent people from seeking medical advice for sight-threatening conditions, such as glaucoma or “lazy eye” (amblyopia and strabismus) in children who need prompt treatment. Discarding corrective lenses or wearing weaker lenses than those prescribed poses safety hazards when operating motor vehicles and heavy equipment.
Bibliography
Bates, William H. The Bates Method for Better Eyesight Without Glasses. Reprint. Thorsons, 2000.
Carrington, Hereward. Your Eyesight: An Outline of the Bates Method of Treatment Without Glasses. Kessinger, 2010.
"Eye Exercise Refresher Online." Natural Eye Care, www.naturaleyecare.com/blog/eye-exercises-vision-health/. Accessed 13 Sept. 2024.
Kaufman, Paul L., and Albert Alm. Adler’s Physiology of the Eye: Clinical Application. 10th ed., Mosby, 2003.
Quackenbush, Thomas R. Relearning to See: Improve Your Eyesight, Naturally! North Atlantic Books, 2000.
"What is the Bates Method?" Vivid Vision, www.seevividly.com/info/Physiology‗of‗Vision/The‗Eyes/Bates‗Method. Accessed 5 Sept. 2024.