Vision Therapy

The human visual system is complex. The problems that can develop in our visual system require a variety of treatment options. Many visual conditions can be treated effectively with spectacles or contact lenses alone; however, some are most effectively treated with vision therapy.

Vision therapy is a sequence of activities individually prescribed and monitored by the doctor to develop efficient visual skills and processing. It is prescribed after a comprehensive eye examination has been performed and has indicated that vision therapy is an appropriate treatment option. The use of lenses, prisms, filters, occluders, specialized instruments, and computer programs is an integral part of vision therapy.

Vision therapy is initiated in the office however once the vision therapy program has been put in place, much of the daily programs are done at home or in school. Periodic office visits are required to monitor the progress and judge the effectiveness of the program.

Research has demonstrated vision therapy can be an effective treatment option for:

• Ocular motility dysfunctions (eye movement disorders)
• Non-strabismic binocular disorders (inefficient eye teaming)
• Strabismus (misalignment of the eyes)
• Amblyopia (poorly developed vision)
• Accommodative disorders (focusing problems)
• Visual information processing disorders, including visual-motor integration and integration with other sensory modalities

Summary
Vision therapy is prescribed to treat diagnosed conditions of the visual system. Effective therapy requires visual skills to be developed until they are integrated with other systems and become automatic, enabling individuals to achieve their full potential.

Our associate, Dr. Kelly MacDonald, will evaluate patients for the need for vision therapy