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Commentators often say that, “there is nothing new under the sun." GUNNAR Optiks of San Diego claim that the answer to computer vision syndrome can be found in their unique and rare GUNNAR computer glasses. Recent statistical reports state that there are around 220 million people using computers at work and at home in this country. GUNNAR Optiks estimates that perhaps as many as 80% of those people have, at one time or another, reported eye strain. Other symptoms which may be experienced are blurred vision, headaches, dry eyes, double vision, light sensitivity, neck pain and backaches.
The features of the computer specs not only reduce glare, but incorporate a low plus reading correction to alleviate focusing strain. This feature can only be useful when utilized indoors. A needed correction for individual use can be fabricated. The lenses are tinted yellow for glare reduction and to enhance the print on the monitor. An anti-reflective coating is applied as well. The form of these remarkable glasses takes a wrap around shape. This was a salient point needed for the final design.
Architects of these anti-fatigue computer specs felt that, “the wrap around shape tends to keep air currents from drying out your eyes and increases the humidity, thereby creating a micro climate for the eyes." GUNNAR Optiks also recommend these specs to be used while text messaging and web browsing with smart-phones and other digital hand held devices.
The company started about two years ago in a garage and has since launched a line of computer specs such as Hombre, Shredder and WiFive. Alloy frames are used and the signature amber lenses are a constant. Company execs were inundated with stories of men, women and children of all ages who were reporting signs and symptoms when using a computer or Game Boy type of program. Parents of school age children registered concern over the fact that if parents were being affected by computer discomfort, then how much more magnified would the problem be with their respective children. GUNNAR Optiks is targeting the hard core of that group. They are people 19-40 years of age in the creative and financial fields of endeavor.
Joe Croft, former designer for Oakley Inc. and Jenny Michelson founded GUNNAR Optiks. Their product was a result of more than five years of research and investigation involving computer fatigue syndrome. They observed the need for accommodative and convergence muscle relief as well as glare from the monitor and conflicting light sources. GUNNAR gave a $30,000 grant to Pacific Union Eye Lab and researcher, James Sheedy to pay for an independent review of the glasses. An additional study has been conducted, but the results have not yet been published, according to James Kundart, the optometry professor who was in charge of the tests.
Kundart pointed out that contributing factors to computer fatigue are provided by PC users who do not follow basic rules of posture, distance, lighting, angle and best focus. Additionally important is the fact that mental and physical fatigue causes symptoms since many people do not detach themselves from the computer often enough to give the eyes a brief, important rest to prevent ocular muscle hypertonicity.
Kundart placed electrodes on the lids of subjects in the study, with reports that the glasses seemed to relieve squinting and reduced dry eye complaints. Research to prove the benefit of the wrap around effect and the microclimate idea revealed a, "subtle but repeatable difference." It was also discovered that the glasses seemed better suited for hyperopes than others since plus acceptance would be advantageous.
Some GUNNAR users reported not only reduced strain and dry eye problems but that the glasses also have a, "modern cool look." They say that the glasses are lightweight and comfortable. Bloggers mention that glare is successfully filtered and images are crisper and more natural.
I came upon some serious users whose comments were not as complimentary. One group of subjects in an office used the spectacles for several weeks and concluded that no noticeable difference in vision or stress levels was apparent. However, these investigators reported no prior problems in the first place, making them a poor consensus as a statistical basis.
An expert, Dr. Kent Daum of the AOA declared, “They are unnecessary and I would advise against wearing them. Trying to overcome glare on a screen that is not very bright via tinted lenses may not make it any easier to see,” said Dr. Daum. “To eliminate glare, a polarizing filter does that best. It is also helpful to close blinds which admit glaring light. Furthermore, one must make sure that the monitor is adjusted to its best focus. The spectacle magnification factor does not impress me since a more useful solution lies in your PCs ability to modify the text size."
One reviewer offered, "I was somewhat surprised at how effective the glasses were. The results indicate that they have different effects on different people.” Another user stated, "As the day wears on, I often end up with a headache or a sore neck. After wearing the specs for about a week, I can certainly tell the difference." Yet another observer refutes Dr. Daum by reporting, “You simply can't use polarization with most digital screens as they will look black at different orientations or positions."
A common drawback recorded is the fact that because of the low plus in the lenses, distances further than the monitor produce blurry vision. Furthermore, it is judged that the "micro climate' effect is minimal and non productive.
The case for the acceptance and popularity of the GUNNAR Optiks product still is, in spite of continued improvement, under the scrutiny of a group of critics. It seems that skeptics will always reveal a critical eye in respect to a new or revolutionary idea. It has been difficult for GUNNAR Optiks to succeed across the board and at all levels of public approval. Of course, every path has some puddles. If, at times, it rained on your parade, remember that without the rain there would be no rainbow.
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