So many people today suffer from eye problems such as near-sightedness or far-sightedness that eyeglass and contact lens sales have become a booming business. Lasik eye surgery, which was first performed in the early 1990s, is a popular alternative to glasses and contacts. These methods of treating eye problems all have their drawbacks, however. So much so that eye professionals are starting to promote a natural way to improve sight through vision therapy, which has been around in various forms since the mid 1800s.

Eyeglasses are the most common method people use to improve sight, with contact lenses not far behind. Both eyeglasses and contact lenses can be prescribed and fitted by ophthalmologists and optometrists. Many people prefer to wear glasses because they are so familiar. Some people use glasses as part of their fashion statement, so they appreciate having a large selection of frame styles and colors to choose from. Other people like the affordability of glasses, compared to Lasik surgery. Glasses don't need much maintenance. However, contacts lenses offer more natural vision than glasses and don't obstruct the wearer's view. A person wearing contacts doesn't need to worry about glare or blurring. Some people aren't able to wear the lenses due to problems with irritability. Lasik surgery is a popular option for people who need vision correction but can't wear lenses or glasses. The surgery is more expensive than lenses, and there are risks associated with it. The current technology surrounding this option is getting better and includes the use of lasers.

Vision therapy uses exercises to improve sight by strengthening the muscles of the eye. Stressed or strained eye muscles can be taught to go back to 20/20 vision with relaxation techniques. Techniques can help people determine whether their eyes are stressed or strained, and then use exercises to relax the muscles and return the eye to proper focus quickly. These techniques can help people as young as elementary school age, up to 80 years old and older. Anecdotal evidence shows that vision therapy can help children and adults diagnosed as dyslexic or ADHD improve their reading comprehension level. Some studies have reported that its best that vision therapy exercises be done in a doctor's office, while others say exercises done at home are just as effective.

Parents looking for solutions to their child's eye problems or adults trying to improve sight should consult their eye care professional first to address their concerns. But no one should rule out any potential options, whether it's corrective lenses, surgery or therapy, to improve vision.