The role of massage in glaucoma

Abstract

Glaucoma is one of the most common causes of blindness across the world. There are many types and causes of glaucoma. The common denominator among all patients is a progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells and their axons. There are many risk factors for glaucoma, including high intraocular pressure, old age, certain races, familial predisposition, and use of certain medications. Body massage has recently come into focus as another factor in patients who have or are predisposed to develop glaucoma. Certain body positions during massage can increase intraocular pressure and compromise the optic nerve leading to visual loss. On the contrary, some reports suggest that certain forms of massage can help reduce intraocular pressure. With the increasing popularity of massage in society, this review is pertinent as it provides insight into the pros and cons of massage in glaucoma patients.