Evidence-Based Exercise Recommendations for the Reduction and Stabilization of Intraocular Pressure: A Practical Guide for Eye Care and Sport Specialists

Abstract

The only proven method to manage glaucoma is the reduction and stabilization of intraocular pressure (IOP). A wide range of daily activities has been demonstrated to affect the IOP behavior, and eye care specialists should be aware of their effects for the prevention and treatment of glaucoma. Indeed, the impact of physical activity on IOP has gained attention in recent years, considering exercise prescription as a promising adjuvant strategy for controlling IOP in glaucoma patients. To integrate all the available information in this regard, we have conducted a clinical review based on a patient-centered approach. Previous studies have demonstrated that the IOP response to physical exercise is dependent on numerous factors such as the exercise type (e.g., endurance or resistance training), exercise intensity, subjects’ fitness level, body position (e.g., supine vs. standing) and breathing pattern adopted during exercise, underlying medical conditions, concomitant mental effort, or caffeine intake before exercise. This article summarizes the available scientific evidence on the positive and negative effects of physical exercise on IOP and provides practical recommendations for exercise prescription in glaucoma patients or those at risk. An active collaboration between eye care and sports medicine specialists would permit a better management of this ocular condition.