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Contact Lens Spectrum

Article

Prescribing for Astigmatism: Steering the Toric Talk

Patients frequently exclude themselves as contact lens candidates because they have astigmatism.

Emily Gottschalk, OD
Contact Lens Spectrum November 1, 2025 Vol 40, Issue November_December 2025 Page(s): 22

Clinical Scorecard: Prescribing for Astigmatism: Steering the Toric Talk

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionAstigmatism
Key MechanismsToric soft contact lenses correct astigmatism by providing optimized vision for digital tasks.
Target PopulationPatients with astigmatism, particularly those who have previously excluded themselves from contact lens wear.
Care SettingOptometry and ophthalmology practices.

Key Highlights

  • 47.4% of patients meet the threshold for soft toric lens correction.
  • Toric soft lenses account for 28% of all soft contact lens fits.
  • Toric lens fit success rates are 80% for existing spherical wearers and 75% for contact lens dropouts.
  • Toric lenses improve near visual acuity and reduce reading errors compared to best sphere lenses.
  • 77% of toric lenses settle within 5° of the ideal location within a minute.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess refractive astigmatism to determine eligibility for toric lenses.

Management

  • Proactively discuss toric contact lenses with patients to improve acceptance.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Evaluate lens fit and visual performance during follow-up visits.

Risks

  • Consider potential discomfort or adaptation issues with new lens types.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with low to moderate astigmatism (-0.50 D to -1.50 D).

Toric lenses are effective for improving vision during digital device use.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Keep patients informed about advances in toric lens technology.
  • Reduce chair time by utilizing optimized lens geometries.
  • Encourage patients to consider toric lenses as a viable option.

References