Prevention of school myopia
This article discusses the problem of myopia, which is one of the most common acquired ocular disorders in children and adolescents. We analyze the causes and mechanisms of school myopia development and currently available methods for its correction. Particular attention is paid to the role of the musculus erector spinae involved in the prevention of long-term excess accommodation, gradually transforming into the spasm of accommodation, which is the main cause of myopia (initially false and then true). Author provides the results of a two-year prospective study involving 35 children and adolescents aged between 6 and 15 years with progressive mild to moderate myopia. All patients (including even a teenage girl, a master of sports in rhythmic gymnastics!) initially presented with a reduced weight of the m. elector spinae, particularly in the cervical spine. Conclusion. Strengthening of the spinal muscles (especially in the cervical and thoracic spine) is crucial to maintain safe and stable focal length from the eye to the text and to ensure easier accommodation. Myopia requires complex treatment, which should include adequate correction of refractive error, special exercises to train the m. erector spinae, and adequate regimen of visual workload at home. Moreover, parents should pay attention to normal development of the m. erector spinae in their child during the first year of life.