Vision therapy is a specialized, non-surgical treatment program designed to improve and enhance various aspects of visual function, including eye movement control, eye coordination, focusing ability, and visual processing skills. It is typically administered by optometrists who have undergone additional training in this field and is often used to address vision problems that cannot be fully corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses alone.

Vision therapy is based on the concept of neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize itself in response to sensory input. The goal of vision therapy is to help the brain develop more efficient ways of processing visual information, leading to improved visual comfort, clarity, and efficiency. It is often compared to physical therapy for the eyes and brain.

Here are some key components of vision therapy:

1. Customized Treatment Plans: Each vision therapy program is tailored to the individual's specific visual needs and challenges. The optometrist conducts a comprehensive assessment to identify any underlying issues that may be affecting visual performance.

2. In-Office and At-Home Activities: Vision therapy sessions involve a series of structured activities and exercises that are performed both in the optometrist's office and at home. These activities are designed to challenge and enhance the visual system's capabilities over time.

3. Visual Skills Development: Vision therapy targets various visual skills, including eye tracking (the ability to smoothly follow moving objects), eye teaming (the coordination of both eyes to work together), focusing (adjusting the lens to see objects at different distances), and visual perception (interpreting and understanding visual information).

4. Binocular Vision Improvement: For individuals with conditions like strabismus (misaligned eyes) or amblyopia (lazy eye), vision therapy can help improve binocular vision, allowing both eyes to work together effectively.

5. Eye-Hand Coordination: Vision therapy can also aid in improving eye-hand coordination and visual-motor skills, which are essential for tasks like reading, writing, and playing sports.

6. Neurological Rehabilitation: Vision therapy can be especially beneficial for individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injuries or other neurological conditions that impact visual function. It helps the brain relearn and strengthen visual skills.

7. Progress Monitoring: Throughout the course of vision therapy, progress is closely monitored through regular follow-up appointments. Adjustments to the treatment plan may be made based on the individual's response to the therapy.

It's important to note that vision therapy is not a quick fix and typically requires a consistent commitment to the prescribed activities over a period of several weeks to months. The success of vision therapy depends on factors such as the severity of the visual issue, the individual's motivation and compliance, and the expertise of the optometrist administering the therapy.

Vision therapy can be an effective option for individuals of all ages, including children and adults, who are experiencing difficulties with visual function that impact their daily activities and quality of life. It is best to consult with an optometrist or vision specialist to determine if vision therapy is an appropriate treatment option for a specific visual concern.

Schedule with us today if you would like an evaluation for vision therapy.