Scientists from the Vanderbilt University in Tennessee have been carrying out research that has been able to improve human’s eyesight temporarily by applying a simple electrical current to the brain. They also discovered in their results that those with poorer eyesight, to begin with, seemed to benefit more from the technique.
The research consisted of 20 subjects who had perfect or near perfect vision. At the start of the tests, they were asked to decipher if two identical vertical lines were aligned perfectly or offset. This provided the researchers with a baseline in which to work from. The subjects were then zapped with an electrical impulse for 20 minutes at the back of the brain near where the visual cortex is located. When the same test was taken again after receiving the impulse treatment, the results demonstrated that 75 percent of the group had improved vision.
To ensure that these results were because the subjects were zapped in the area near the visual cortex, they did the same test again in another area of the brain and found that the test did not improve the subject’s vision this time. This concludes that the area of the brain that needs to be stimulated is that of the visual cortex. Tests were also carried out in the same manner but with the use of standard eye tests, and rest assured there were significant improvements on these tests also.
Although at the moment the results are only temporary, with more time and research, scientists are hopeful that they can revolutionize eye treatments and help those suffering from poor vision. This could be a life-changing opportunity for some if it does come to fruition, including those that are unable to have eye surgery for personal or medical reasons. So, keep your eyes peeled and watch this space for electrical impulse eye treatments coming your way.
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