Myopia Management

Good vision is essential for every child’s growth, learning, and overall well-being. In today’s world, more children are developing myopia at a younger age than ever before. At Eyes on Painted Tree, we partner with families to provide proven solutions that safeguard vision and support long-term eye health.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It happens when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea curves too steeply, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

In recent years, myopia has become increasingly common in children. Factors such as increased screen time, less time spent outdoors, and genetics all play a role. Studies show that children who spend more time indoors are at a higher risk of developing myopia earlier in life.

The Impact on Learning and Academics

Clear vision is essential for success in the classroom. Children with untreated myopia may struggle to see the board, read from a distance, or fully engage in sports and activities. This can lead to frustration, decreased confidence, and difficulties keeping up academically.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Parents should watch for signs that their child may have myopia, including:

• Squinting to see objects far away

• Holding books or screens very close

• Complaints of headaches or eye strain

• Difficulty seeing the board at school

Early Detection Is Key

Early detection is key to protecting your child’s vision. Pediatric eye exams allow our optometrists to catch vision problems like myopia early, track changes over time, and recommend treatment before the condition worsens. Routine exams also ensure that children have the visual tools they need for learning and development.

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Myopia management goes beyond simply prescribing glasses. It focuses on slowing the progression of myopia to reduce the risks of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it can be in protecting long-term eye health.

Myopia Management Strategies

At Eyes on Painted Tree, we offer several evidence-based strategies to help manage myopia:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special overnight contact lenses that gently reshape the cornea to provide clear vision during the day while slowing eye growth.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose medicated drops that have been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children.

• MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses: The first FDA-approved soft contact lenses proven to slow myopia progression in children.

• Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: Special lenses that provide clear vision and help reduce eye strain while slowing myopia development.

Supporting Families in Our Community

Our team is committed to guiding families through every step of the process, from diagnosis to ongoing care. By partnering with parents, we help ensure children not only see clearly today but also protect their vision for years to come.

​​​​​​​If you’ve noticed your child struggling with distance vision, schedule a pediatric eye exam at Eyes on Painted Tree today. Early detection and personalized myopia management can make all the difference in your child’s academic success and lifelong eye health.