Engaging in sports is a fantastic way to stay healthy and active, but it also comes with the risk of eye injuries, which can be severe. As summer is finally here, Murray Scholls Vision Center helps you protect your eyes with practical strategies to prevent injuries during sports and physical activities.
Understanding Sports-Related Eye Injuries
Eye injuries in sports can range from mild irritations, such as sand or dust in the eye, to severe trauma, such as fractures to the eye socket, or even permanent vision loss. Sports like basketball, baseball, racquet sports, and soccer pose a higher risk of eye injuries due to their speed and nature.
Tips for Preventing Eye Injuries in Sports
Preventing eye injuries in sports is essential; selecting the right protective gear is the first step. The following tips will help ensure you and your family stay safe while enjoying sports activities:
Wear Appropriate Protective Eyewear
The most effective way to prevent eye injuries is to wear proper protective eyewear. Look for eyewear that meets the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards for your specific sport.
We recommend polycarbonate lenses due to their impact resistance and ability to withstand high-velocity impacts.
Choose Sport-Specific Eyewear
Different sports require different types of protection. For example, basketball players should wear goggles that provide full coverage, while swimmers might need tight-fitting goggles to keep water and bacteria away from the eyes.
Use Helmets with Protective Face Masks or Visors
Wearing a helmet with a face mask or visor can greatly reduce the risk of eye and face injuries in sports involving bats, balls, or sticks. This is particularly important in youth sports.
Ensure Proper Fit
Sports eyewear must fit properly to provide effective protection. Eyewear that slips or is uncomfortable can distract from the game and may not properly protect during an impact.
Regularly Replace Sports Eyewear
Inspect and replace sports eyewear regularly. Scratches or wear and tear can reduce the protective ability of the eyewear and compromise vision.
Balancing Eyewear Style with Safety
When choosing sports eyewear, the aesthetic should never overshadow the safety features. Here’s how to balance the two:
- Ensure 100% UV Protection: Always choose lenses with complete UV protection to protect your eyes from harmful rays
- Opt for Impact-Resistant Lenses: Look for polycarbonate or Trivex lenses, up to 10 times more impact-resistant than plastic or glass lenses
- Select Proper Fit: A stylish pair of sports glasses must also fit well to provide maximum safety. Ensure that your eyewear fits snugly around your head and doesn’t slip during intense activities
Educating Young Athletes and Parents on Eye Safety
It is crucial to create awareness among young athletes and their parents about the importance of eye safety in sports. Educating them about the risks and the severe implications of eye injuries can encourage the consistent use of protective eyewear at all levels of sport.
Get Professional Advice at Murray Scholls Vision Center
Before participating in any sport, consider a consultation at Murray Scholls Vision Center. Our experts can recommend the best type of sports eyewear based on your specific activities and vision needs. We provide a range of options that cater to various sports and offer protection and style.
Prevent eye injuries and enhance your sports performance by choosing the right protection. Visit us at Murray Scholls Vision Center to learn more about our protective eyewear options and ensure that you or your young athlete can enjoy sports safely and with clear vision.