Can Yoga Lower Eye Pressure? | SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

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Can Yoga Lower Eye Pressure? | SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

By Dr. Ann Aligweke (OD)

IOP is the fluid pressure inside the eye. High IOP can damage the optic nerve and lead to glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness in Nigeria. Yoga can influence IOP both positively and negatively, depending on the poses practiced.

The Yoga Paradox: Benefits vs. Risks

Benefits: Stress Reduction

  • Mindfulness and breathing techniques (Pranayama) in yoga lower cortisol and systemic blood pressure, which can help reduce IOP.

  • Many patients at SpecSMART Eye Clinic report less ocular strain and better overall well-being with regular yoga practice.

Risks: Inversions and Mechanical Pressure

  • Inverted poses (where the head is lower than the heart) increase venous pressure and significantly raise IOP.

  • Research shows poses like Downward-Facing Dog, Standing Forward Bend, and Legs Up the Wall can double IOP within minutes, potentially accelerating optic nerve damage in glaucoma patients.

Guidelines for Yoga Practitioners in Lagos

Poses to Avoid (The "No-Go" List)

  • Headstands (Sirshasana)

  • Shoulder stands (Sarvangasana)

  • Plow pose (Halasana)

  • Deep forward folds with the head hanging low

Recommended Poses (The "Safe" List)

  • Mountain Pose (Tadasana)

  • Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana)

  • Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana), if the head is supported

  • Corpse Pose (Savasana) for relaxation

The Role of Professional Monitoring

  • Regular eye pressure screenings at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja are essential for yoga practitioners, especially those with glaucoma or borderline high IOP.

  • Breathing exercises (Pranayama) are encouraged, but inversions should be strictly avoided if you have glaucoma.

  • Move slowly during Sun Salutations and keep your head above heart level.

Integrating Lifestyle and Clinical Care

  • Inform your yoga instructor about your eye health needs.

  • Stay hydrated to maintain healthy eye fluid consistency.

  • Schedule check-ups every 6 months to ensure your yoga routine isn’t harming your vision.

FAQs

Can yoga lower eye pressure?

Yes, through stress reduction and improved circulation, but only if inversions are avoided.

Which yoga poses should I avoid with glaucoma?

Avoid any pose where your head is below your heart, such as headstands, shoulder stands, and deep forward folds.

How often should I have an eye exam if I practice yoga?

Every 6 months, or as recommended by your optometrist at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja.

📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

Ile-Oja Mall, Opebi Link road, Ikeja.
📞 0703 839 1197

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References

  • Dada, T., et al. (2018). Mindfulness-based stress reduction in glaucoma: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Glaucoma.

  • Jasien, J. V., et al. (2016). Intraocular Pressure Rise in Subjects with and without Glaucoma during Four Common Yoga Positions. PLOS ONE.

  • Sihota, R., et al. (2019). Lifestyle and Glaucoma: The Role of Yoga and Diet. Indian Journal of Ophthalmology.

  • World Health Organization (WHO). (2024). Physical Activity and Ocular Health: Global Perspectives.