With modern eye care technology and techniques, not all visual problems require invasive procedures. Vision therapy is a specialized treatment that uses individualized physical therapy techniques to correct visual-motor and perceptual-cognitive problems. In addition to the advice of your optometrist, this guide will provide some basic information on this treatment and whether it’s right for you.

What to Know About Vision Therapy

What is vision therapy?

This therapy involves progressive vision exercises that correct the connection between the eyes and the brain. This can help improve a patient’s visual motor skills, or the way the eyes move and focus, in addition to the cognitive side of vision, or how the brain processes images. An optometrist will prescribe a series of treatments until the patient’s vision improves.

Who is a candidate for vision therapy?

Children with learning disabilities, including ADD and dyslexia, may benefit from vision therapy. Patients with eye alignment, eye focusing, and eye tracking issues can also be candidates. An eye doctor may recommend this type of treatment for someone with visual processing difficulties, amblyopia, strabismus, and double vision. These treatments can also be part of recovery from a traumatic brain injury or stroke. Since vision therapy can help a variety of conditions, it’s important to see an eye doctor and determine if this treatment course is right for you.

What does a typical session look like?

A patient will undergo their vision therapy sessions at an optometrist’s office, usually once or twice per week for 30 minutes to one hour. The doctor will use computer software, electronic targets, optical filters, special lenses, and other devices to address the patient’s particular issue. During each session, the doctor carefully tracks a patient’s progress and adjusts their treatment as needed.

How do I get started with vision therapy?

The first step in undergoing vision therapy is to have a comprehensive vision exam with an optometrist. They will assess your eye health and vision problems, providing a clear diagnosis and treatment plan. This plan could include vision therapy in addition to eyeglasses or other procedures.

If you are experiencing vision problems or are due for your yearly eye exam, the optometrists at EyeOptics Optometry Center in Elk Grove, CA, are here to care for you. Their full-service center offers eye exams, surgical treatments, and vision therapy to keep your eyes functioning properly. Their team can also help you pick out a new pair of eyeglasses. To view a full list of services and to learn more about their facility, visit their website. You can also call (916) 684-6688 to make an appointment today.