Exercise

[haraba]

Last week, the opthalmologist advised me to try and modify some lifestyle factors that may increase eye pressure . For example: avoid positions where the “ head is lower than the heart” for a “sustained period” in general. I have read that “downward dog” in yoga and headstands raise the IOP.

I do TaiChi, which is calming, but I will miss out some of the balance and breathing exercises, which involve bending down to the floor.

Thankfully, walking and cardiovascular exercises are helpful to glaucoma in general.

On the internet, there is unclear advice. Some sites advise that push ups and flat bench exercises are inadvisable in glaucoma. One would have to incline the bench and use upright resistance machines and cable apparatus for exercising the upper chest ? Obviously, no straining with any weights.

I am trying to apply a “common sense” approach coupled with any evidence based knowledge where possible.

Does anyone have any advice or weblink regarding abdominal exercises ?

Many floor stretching exercises involve a supine position. Does one avoid these altogether ?

Thank you.

[Derfahrer]

Hi,I suspect that to some extent this is going to vary by individual. I have had a home tonometer for about 15 months now, and have had the chance to look at this question for myself.

Doing yoga is OK for me, but I don't hold any inverted position for more than a breath cycle or two. Core work, crunches, light weights don't present any issues. I do stretching while on the floor, but have a pillow under my head -- also no problem.

Walking is good. Cycling also (which I do daily), but I have noticed if I do a really hard ride I will get a rise in IOP a few hours afterward (which is a bit of a mystery, even to my doctor).

[haraba in reply to Derfahrer]

Thank you for your reply. Absolutely agree that everyone will have a unique answer to this relative to their own health and status of their glaucoma . I have done field loss in one eye due to NTG and use Latanoprost and Brinzolamide. Interesting to hear of the home tonometer. Thanks.

[timmothysmith01]

Brisk walking, biking, swimming, and lawn mowing are examples of exercises that fit within the category of moderate aerobic activity. Exercises that fall under the category of vigorous aerobic workout include running, physically demanding yard work, and aerobic dancing. Strength training might include using free weights, your own weight, heavy bags, resistance tubes or paddles in the water, or activities like rock climbing.

If you want to lose weight, reach certain fitness goals, or get more benefits, you might need to intensify moderate aerobic exercises even more.