What is Vision Therapy?

Vision therapy, often also referred to as visual training or orthoptics, is a customized program of visual exercises designed to correct specific vision problems and improve visual skills. Unlike eyeglasses and contact lenses, which simply compensate for vision problems, or eye surgery that alters the anatomy of the eye, vision therapy aims to "teach" the visual system to correct itself.

The Science Behind Vision Therapy

The science that underpins vision therapy is both fascinating and complex. It is based on the concept of neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences, information, or environments. The exercises used in vision therapy help to establish new pathways in the brain, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of visual information processing.

For instance, let's consider a common condition treated with vision therapy, Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye. This condition occurs when the brain and the eye are not working in unison, resulting in the brain favoring one eye over the other. Vision therapy exercises can help correct this imbalance, training the brain to use both eyes equally.

These exercises can range from using lenses and prisms to computer-assisted visual activities and non-computerized viewing instruments. The kind of tools and methods used depend on the nature and severity of the diagnosed vision problem. The therapy sessions are conducted in-office and are designed to be engaging and interactive, keeping patients motivated throughout the process.

Who Needs Vision Therapy?

There is a wide range of vision problems that can be effectively treated with vision therapy. Some of these include strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), and various binocular vision problems that can affect coordination and balance. Vision therapy can also help individuals struggling with visual challenges related to learning disabilities, reading problems, and even sports performance.

Children are often the most common patients for vision therapy, particularly those who have been diagnosed with learning-related vision problems. However, adults can also benefit from vision therapy. In fact, vision therapy can be even more effective for adults in some cases because they are typically more motivated and follow the therapy instructions more diligently.

Additionally, individuals who have suffered from a traumatic brain injury, such as a stroke or concussion, may also find vision therapy beneficial. These injuries can often lead to vision dysfunction, and vision therapy can play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process.

What are the Benefits of Vision Therapy?

There are numerous benefits of vision therapy that go beyond simply improving visual acuity. Vision therapy can improve visual function and efficiency, leading to more comfortable and efficient visual processing. This can result in improved reading speed and comprehension, better school performance, enhanced sports performance, and even improved self-esteem.

Vision therapy can also lead to improved binocular vision, enabling the individual to use both eyes together effectively. This can enhance depth perception, eye tracking, and visual concentration. It can also help to alleviate symptoms of visual stress, such as headaches and eye strain.

Importantly, the benefits achieved through vision therapy are not temporary. Because vision therapy works to retrain the brain, the improvements gained are typically lasting and can even continue to progress after the therapy program is completed.

Explore the Benefits of Vision Therapy Today

As our understanding of the visual system and brain plasticity continues to grow, so too will the effectiveness and reach of vision therapy. In the meantime, anyone struggling with visual challenges can consider vision therapy as a potential pathway to clearer, more comfortable vision.

To learn more about vision therapy, visit Glenpool Eye Care at our office in Glenpool, Oklahoma. Please call (918) 233-8400 to schedule an appointment today.