What is Neuro-Optometric Therapy?
Neuro-optometric therapy describes the approach to the visual system which takes into account the neurological causes of the patient’s vision problem, and aims to address the underlying issue through optometric interventions. Our doctors are specially trained in a variety of treatment options that are often different from that of a primary care optometrist.
Before initiating any treatment plan, the Doctor will make sure your eyes are healthy and determine what the best glasses prescription is, if any, to eliminate symptoms. For some people, this is a significant portion of the treatment plan, especially if they are not able to do regular vision rehabilitation therapy sessions.
Color Light Therapy
We have found significant improvement in the symptoms of concussion and other neurological issues by using color light therapy (syntonics). This simple treatment involves using specific wavelengths of light as a medicine, which are transmitted to the brain through the eyes, and can be performed at home with only a few visits to the office. This is often our first treatment when working with a post-concussion patient.
Vision Rehabilitation Therapy
Each person’s needs and functions vary following a brain injury, and each treatment program is designed to match the patient’s unique needs and goals. We work to integrate our neuro-optometric care with other providers to make sure the treatment is appropriate for the patient.
Ideally, vision rehabilitation therapy is a weekly visit with a vision therapist who works through vision activities to help build better visual function, skills and strategies. Our vision therapists are very skilled at adjusting the activity to the appropriate level for the patient, making sure the exercise is constructive without being too taxing. We see a wide range of patients from complex and severe, to the more mild injuries where we are returning to a high level of performance in sports, school, or work.
The goal of vision rehabilitation therapy is to retrain the visual system and eliminate the visual symptoms that arise from a concussion or neurological issue. Using specific eye-training exercises, we can help the brain rewire to improve eye function. It is always better to start these exercises as early as possible following a concussion, once the patient is stable.
