Vision Therapy
What is Vision Therapy?Optometric vision therapy is the art and science of developing visual abilities to achieve optimal performance and comfort. Through a series of exercises programmed by the doctor, patients learn to use their visual abilities in new or more efficient ways with the guidance of a therapy assistant. Although similar to physical therapy, thought processes are involved in vision therapy since the eyes are a direct outgrowth of brain tissue.
Who Can Benefit From Vision Therapy?
Patients of all ages can benefit from vision therapy. The nature of the therapy program varies with the condition treated. For example, a three year-old child with Amblyopia, or a "lazy eye", may simply have the better eye patched for a short period of time. An eight year-old child with Strabismus, or a "crossed eye", may require therapy for a period of a year. A 30 year-old computer programmer may require three to six months to solve a visual problem causing significant eye strain.
Is Vision Therapy New?
Vision therapy is actually an outgrowth of Orthoptics. Orthoptics, which literally means "straightening of the eyes", was introduced to this country by physicians in the late 1800's. As physicians became more focused on eyeglasses, medication , and surgery, the benefits of Orthoptics were taught to fewer and fewer practitioners. However, optometrists in the mid 1900's took the best that Orthoptics had to offer, and pioneered in the development of vision therapy.
What's Involved In A Vision Therapy Program?
Patients typically come to the office weekly for 30 minutes each visit. In addition, a workbook is included which contains instruction for activities to be done at home as reinforcement of what is learned during the office therapy sessions. Commitment to the therapy program, and maintaining a schedule of weekly visits, is critical to the success of the program.
For additional information please visit these websites:
www.COVD.org & www.OEP.org
