VISION-related problems due to hours of staring at the computer, playing computer games and watching videos, are plaguing many people today. Not only are such problems prevalent among office workers, but also among the younger generation because computers are very much part and parcel of their lives.

While eyeglasses and contact lenses serve to help manage the problem, there is another way to rein in vision-related problems – non-intrusive therapy for tired eyes through the use of vision therapy devices. One such device is the EyeRelax2 from Singapore-based Energie Eyecare Group, touted as one of the world’s first home (as opposed to clinical) vision therapy devices.

The EyeRelax2 is based on neuro vision science and said to be effective for common vision problems such as myopia (short-sightedness), amblyopia (lazy eye) and presbyopia (long-sightedness). It is developed based on patented research in bio-spectrum and eye visual fields.

The device comes in a package containing a user manual, a copy of the international standard eye chart, monitoring cards and a one-year warranty card, among others.

Other items include a viewing device that comes with a liquid crystal display (LCD), operating switches for two types of treatment (quick relief and full treatment), a loud speaker, socket for earphone, battery compartment, voltage adapter, earphones, an eyeshade and supply socket.

Before using the EyeRelax2, the user is required to perform an eyecheck using the eyechart provided. The results of the eyecheck for both eyes should be recorded on the monitoring cards.

Starting the therapy is easy enough. When the main device is switched on, the LCD will display the Quick Relief indicator, Full Treatment indicator, treatment duration, timer bar, battery indicator and usage monitoring counter.

The user has to place his eyes on the viewing window with one eye covered by the eyeshade. Either a two-minute Quick Relief sequence or a seven-minute Full Treatment sequence can be selected by just pressing the relevant switch.

For Full Treatment, once the EyeRelax2 is switched on, an image of different spectrums will appear, recurring from far to near, accompanied by myopic defocus. Upon completion of the simulation, images of varying spectrum frequencies will appear at constant intervals and subsequently in sync with the audio rhythm.

At the end of the treatment, the spectrum images, audio music and timer bar will disappear and be turned off automatically. Then the user needs to rotate the eyeshade 180 degrees and repeat the whole process for the other eye.

The user should rest his eyes for a short period after the therapy.

According to the company, the EyeRelax2 functions by training the eyes to focus better. This helps to overcome “accommodation” problems that form the basis for many vision defects.

Besides that, the device strengthens the muscles that surround the eyes as well as relaxes the eye muscles and reduces strain on the eyes. The images in vibrant colours apparently stimulate the cells in the eyes and strengthen them.

With repeated usage of two times per day for a period of three to six months, depending on the user’s existing eye condition, Energie claims that improved eyesight can be enjoyed gradually. The user can monitor his progress by jotting down the relevant information in the standard myopia international eyechart and presbyopia international eyechart.

Users are advised to use the EyeRelax2 in accordance to their doctor’s advice.

Product: EyeRelax2
Manufacturer: Energie Healthcare International
Enquiries: Energie Eyecare Sdn Bhd
(Toll-free: 1-300-889-555)
Price: RM1,780 at selected Watsons Personal Care and Aeon Wellness stores

Specifications
• Dimensions: 280mm by 183mm by 280mm
• Weight: 1.6kg
• Battery: Three AA environment-friendly alkaline batteries
• Adapter: Input voltage: AC 220 10 per cent, 50Hz; output voltage: voltage stabilisation DC 4.5V/220mA

Our verdict: ***1/2
Physical design: ***
Documentation: ****
User-friendliness: ****
Features: ***1/2

* Performance and value-for-money can only be determined through professional eye checkup