Comparison of Aerobic Exercises Vs Orbital Massage in Patients with Dry Eyes

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of orbital massage versus aerobic exercises in patients with dry eyes.

Methodology: A randomized clinical trial was conducted at Teaching Hospital Dera Murad Jamali from August 2023 to June 2024. Sample size for this study was calculated using G*Power, resulting in a total of 40 participants, divided equally into two different groups of participants. Group A (aerobic exercises) and Group B (orbital massage). Exclusion criteria included other ocular diseases or recent eye surgeries, systemic conditions affecting tear production, and inability to perform the prescribed interventions. The data was collected at baseline, and follow-up assessments at week 1, 1^st  month, and 2^nd  months were done using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and Schirmer Test.

Results: Both interventions significantly improved Schirmer results and OSDI scores, with aerobic exercises showing a slightly greater impact. However, the Schirmer test showed a significant reduction in tear production over time for both groups. A significant correlation between the Schirmer Test and OSDI scores was found only in the Orbital Massage group at Month 2. Mann-Whitney U tests indicated no statistically significant differences between the groups in tear production and dry eye symptoms at the 2nd month, suggesting similar efficacy for both treatments.

Conclusion: The study concludes that both aerobic exercises and orbital massage effectively alleviate dry eye symptoms over two months.