20/20 is not Enough
Good vision is more than 20/20. In fact, it involves many different visual skills working together. Each skill must be performed properly so that one can see clearly, understand what is seen, and use this information to guide movement. These visual skills include: accommodation (focusing), ocular motility (eye movements), binocularity (eye teaming), visual perception (visual analysis and visual memory), and visual-motor integration (eye-hand coordination). Difficulties with these skills can result in eyestrain, headaches, blurred or double vision, difficulty with concentration, reduced reading comprehension. Poor visual skills are often associated with strabismus (a turned eye) or amblyopia (a lazy eye). Problems in visual performance can occur at any age.

How Does Visual Performance Affect Learning?
Eighty percent of all information enters through the eyes. If the proper visual skills have not been developed properly or are not fully developed, it could present an obstacle to learning. In fact, 80% of all children who are identified with learning disabilities and 70% of juvenile delinquents have vision problems that interfere with their ability to achieve.

How Is Visual Performance Evaluated?
Not all vision exams are the same. A vision screening or a quick eye exam may not include testing for all of the visual skills need for good visual performance. A thorough “general” vision examination will check for difficulties in each area in order to identify those needing further, more in-depth testing. A complete assessment of the neuro-muscular aspects (focusing, eye movements, and eye teaming skills) of visual performance is called a sensorimotor examination. Developmental testing may also be indicated if a problem with visual perceptual (visual analysis, visual memory and visual-motor integration) skills is suspected. This includes a screening for Dyslexia and other developmental problems that can interfere with reading and/or academic performance.

How Are Visual Performance Problems Treated?
Nearly all problems with visual performance can be treated. Treatment may include the use of lenses, prisms, filters, or orthoptic vision therapy. In certain cases, surgery may be advised.

What Is Vision Therapy?
Like many other skills, visual skills are developed and can generally be improved with practice. Vision therapy is like physical therapy for the eyes. Specific visual exercises are prescribed in order to improve neuromuscular control and stamina. It is usually necessary to practice these exercises at home in addition to office visits. Computerized vision therapy exercises are available for some conditions.

How Successful Is Vision Therapy?
Vision therapy has been proven to be an effective treatment for many problems that cannot be treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses alone. The success of therapy is highly dependent upon the complexity of the problem, age, and compliance with daily home therapy.

How Long Will it Take?
Like other muscles in the body, the muscles of the eyes also take some time to “get in shape”. As with any exercise program, some discomfort (eyestrain and headaches) may occur initially. Estimated times assume strict compliance with home therapy.

Where Can I Find More Information About Vision Therapy?
We have many articles that discuss visual performance and the effectiveness of vision therapy. Feel free to call the office to request a patient information folder. You may also want to check out the following web sites:

Parents Active for Vision Education (P.A.V.E.) www.pavevision.org
College of Optometrists in Vision Development (C.O.V.D.) www.covd.org
www.visiontherapy.org
www.children-special-needs.org