What You Need to Know About Sports Eye Safety

Certain sports and activities increase the risk of eye injuries. Always be careful when participating in activities that involve sharp items and flying objects. One way to ensure your eyes are safe while you’re playing sports is wearing the proper safety eyewear. Keep in mind that conventional glasses won’t give your eyes the protection they need. 

A local eye exam doctor shares facts about sports eye safety. 

Blinding Injuries Can Occur From Combat Sports

People participating in boxing and full-contact martial arts are at significant risk of severe eye injuries that can lead to blindness. While there’s no standard eye protection for boxing, using thumbless gloves can help reduce eye injuries related to the sport. 

Basketball Is the Leading Cause of Sports-Related Injuries

Most sports-related eye injuries in the U.S. occur while playing basketball. It is followed by softball, baseball, airsoft rifles, pellet guns, racquetball and hockey. When playing these sports, you must wear protective glasses with shatterproof, polycarbonate lenses. It pays to invest in protective eyewear that meets the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. At Lumen Optometric, we’re here to help choose which glasses or contact lenses are most suitable for your activity. 

Consider Your Risks

If one of your eyes already has reduced vision, think hard before participating in a sport with a high risk of eye injury. Are you willing to risk your other eye? Consult your eye doctor to find out what kind of eye protection you need. They might also advise or discourage you from playing high-risk sports, depending on the condition of your eyes. 

Let Lumen Optometric assist with your vision and eye health needs. We offer eyeglasses, neurolens therapy, corneal reshaping treatment and more! Give us a call at (626) 921-0199 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.