Vision therapy is a doctor-supervised, non-surgical and customized program of vision based therapeutic procedures designed to correct various vision problems and/or improve visual skills. Unlike eyeglasses and contact lenses, which simply compensate for vision problems, or eye surgery that alters the anatomy of the eye or surrounding muscles, vision therapy aims to “teach” the visual system to correct itself. Vision therapy is like physical therapy for the entire visual system, including the eyes and the parts of the brain that control vision. Vision therapy can include the use of lenses, prisms, filters, computerized visual activities and non-computerized viewing instruments. Non-medical “tools,” such as balls, balance boards, metronomes and other devices can also play an important role in a customized vision therapy program. Overall, the goal of vision therapy is to treat vision problems that cannot be treated successfully with eyeglasses, contact lenses and/or surgery alone, and help people achieve clear, comfortable binocular vision. Many studies have shown that vision therapy can correct vision problems that interfere with efficient reading among school children. It also can help reduce eyestrain and other symptoms of computer vision syndrome experienced by many children and adults. To learn more about vision therapy contact us or visit the COVD and All About Vision websites. You can also find patient testimonials at Vision Therapy Stories and The Heart of the Matter Blog.
