Vision therapy is a specialized treatment designed to improve visual skills and processing. It benefits individuals experiencing various vision problems, especially those related to brain injuries or unexplained visual and neurological symptoms. In this blog, our Spokane eye care team at Advanced Eyecare & Therapies explores the different conditions that can benefit from vision therapy. It highlights the importance of this treatment for enhancing overall quality of life.
What is Vision Therapy?
Vision therapy is a customized program of eye exercises and activities designed to correct specific vision problems and improve visual skills. It is akin to physical therapy but focused on the eyes and visual processing system. The therapy involves a range of exercises, often using specialized equipment, to train the eyes and brain to work together more effectively.
Explore the Conditions Helped by Vision Therapy
1. Rebuilding Vision After Brain Injuries
Individuals who have suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussion, or stroke often experience visual disturbances. These disturbances can include double vision, difficulty focusing, light sensitivity, and problems with eye movement and coordination. Vision therapy can significantly help rehabilitate these visual functions by retraining the brain to process visual information correctly.
2. Unexplained Visual and Neurological Symptoms
Many patients experience unexplained visual or neurological symptoms that are not easily diagnosed. These can include headaches, dizziness, and difficulty reading or concentrating. Vision therapy can be effective in these cases, as it addresses underlying visual processing issues that may be contributing to these symptoms.
3. Strabismus (Crossed Eyes) and Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Strabismus and amblyopia are conditions where the eyes do not align properly or one eye is weaker than the other. Vision therapy can help correct these issues by strengthening the weaker eye and improving eye coordination, leading to better binocular vision and depth perception.
4. Convergence Insufficiency
Convergence insufficiency is when the eyes do not work together properly when focusing on a close object. This can cause double vision, eye strain, and headaches, particularly when reading or doing close work. Vision therapy can train the eyes to work together more effectively, reducing these symptoms.
5. Vision Problems That Affect Learning
Some children and adults have vision problems that affect their ability to read, write, and learn effectively. These problems often stem from poor visual processing skills rather than visual acuity issues. Vision therapy can help improve these skills, leading to better academic and work performance.
6. Sports Vision Improvement
Athletes can also benefit from vision therapy. Enhancing visual skills, such as depth perception, peripheral vision, and eye-hand coordination, can improve performance in sports. Vision therapy helps in refining these skills, giving athletes a competitive edge.Curious if vision therapy could help you? Take our quick Vision Therapy Evaluation Quiz to find out!
Why Vision Therapy Matters
Vision therapy is a non-invasive and effective treatment that can significantly improve visual function and quality of life. For patients with brain injuries or unexplained visual and neurological symptoms, it offers a pathway to regain normal visual capabilities and ease discomfort. By addressing the root causes of visual disturbances, vision therapy helps patients lead more comfortable and productive lives.
Consult with our team of eye care professionals to explore if vision therapy could be the right solution for you.