In the ever-evolving world of eye care, some research papers stand out as pivotal moments that redefine how optometrists approach vision correction and treatment. One such paper, published in 1997 by Professor Christine Wildsoet in Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics, played a crucial role in shaping contemporary understanding of emmetropization—how the eye develops to see clearly.

Wildsoet’s paper built on previous research that had raised concerns about conventional vision correction in children. An earlier study (Hung et al., 1995) suggested that forcing young children to wear glasses could sometimes worsen their vision. This challenged long-standing practices and left eye care professionals searching for clarity.

To address this, Wildsoet reviewed research on refractive development—how the eye naturally adjusts to focus light correctly. She examined evidence from animal studies in the 1970s and 1980s that explored how environmental factors and interventions influence this process. In particular, she cited work by Wallman and Adams (1987), which confirmed that emmetropization is an active mechanism within the eye’s development.

For optometrists, understanding emmetropization is key to addressing myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness). Before the 1990s, refractive errors were corrected with glasses and contact lenses without fully understanding why they occurred. Wildsoet’s paper was instrumental in shifting this perspective, demonstrating that refractive development could be influenced—and that interventions could guide the process toward healthier vision outcomes.

Her work laid the foundation for modern myopia management. She emphasized the need for human studies to complement animal research, urging the scientific community to explore how defocus signals are processed in the eye. This call to action fueled the development of today’s myopia control techniques.

The impact of Wildsoet’s research is unmistakable. The idea that optometrists can actively influence refractive development is now widely accepted, and many practitioners integrate myopia management strategies into routine care. Techniques such as specialized contact lenses, atropine eye drops, and orthokeratology (corneal reshaping therapy) stem from the research she synthesized over two decades ago.

If you’ve ever prescribed myopia management lenses or advised parents on controlling myopia progression, you’re directly benefiting from Wildsoet’s work. Her research not only improved our understanding of eye growth but also empowered optometrists to take a proactive role in preventing and managing myopia.

While great strides have been made since 1997, the journey is far from over. Researchers continue to refine our understanding of emmetropization, exploring genetic and environmental factors contributing to refractive errors. Thanks to the groundwork laid by Wildsoet and her contemporaries, today’s optometrists are better equipped than ever to guide patients toward clearer, healthier vision.

As we celebrate 100 years of Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics, it’s fitting to acknowledge pioneers like Professor Wildsoet. Her work reminds us that science and clinical practice go hand in hand—constantly evolving to improve patient care and reshape our understanding of vision.