Vision therapy is a type of treatment that involves eye exercises. It is a series of non-surgical sessions of visual activities designed to correct specific vision conditions. Vision therapy is administered by a specialist to improve visual skills. Convergence insufficiency disorder is one of the vision disorders treated.
Vision therapy also helps to improve visual perception. It is important to dispel the myths associated with it because vision therapy can help many people.
MYTH #1: There Is No Research on Vision Therapy
Vision therapy is used to treat convergence disorder, and there is supporting evidence as to the efficacy of it. Many studies have been carried out by research institutions such as the National Eye Institute (NEI), which is the governmentβs lead agency for vision research.
MYTH #2: Vision Therapy Is Not for Adults
Vision therapy is not limited to children, although they respond well to this treatment. The efficacy of vision therapy treatment depends on the type of eye disorder, not age. Many people think that they are too old for vision therapy because they mistakenly believe that their vision cannot improve. People of all ages have benefitted from vision therapy.
MYTH #3: Vision Therapy Is Too Expensive
Vision therapy is no more expensive than many other services. If improved vision is what you need, then you canβt afford to not try vision therapy. The benefits of vision therapy outweigh the expense because they are priceless. Some insurance plans will cover the treatment, leaving you with a reasonable co-pay. Many specialists will work out a payment plan as well.
MYTH #4: Glasses Are All Thatβs Needed, Not Vision Therapy
Prescription glasses can correct many vision problems. Combined with glasses or contacts, vision therapy can be even more effective. Vision therapy can help correct visual perception problems and poor eye tracking. The multiple sessions of vision therapy are like training sessions for the eyes and brain to learn to work better together. Customized activities offer practice and repetition to train the eyes. Glasses cannot do that.
MYTH #5: Only Surgery Can Fix Any Vision Problems
Vision Therapy can teach the brain how to efficiently use both eyes, which could increase depth perception. In fact, post-surgical patients can benefit from vision therapy. Often after surgery, the brain and eyes must adjust and learn to work together again. Surgery in combination with vision therapy can offer the best results.
MYTH #6: All Vision Therapy Treatments Are the Same
There is not a cookie-cutter type of treatment that fits all eye disorders and all people. In order to ensure the best care, it is important to consult with a certified professional who specializes in vision therapy. Some clinics offer one-on-one sessions, group sessions, or both.
Now that we have provided the facts about vision therapy, reach out to our VisionQuest Eyecare team for your customized treatment plan.Β Schedule an appointment today
Dr. Rae Winters received her doctorate from Indiana University School of Optometry and completed her Residency in Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation at Wow Vision Therapy in St. Joseph, Michigan, where she received special training in the optometric treatment of strabismus, amblyopia, vision-related learning problems, and traumatic brain injury. She is passionate about helping children reach their visual potential through pediatric eye exams, vision therapy, and myopia management!