Traditional correction methods for refractive vision errors include eyeglasses, contact lenses and LASIK laser surgery. However, these are treatments which simply manipulate light to focus correctly – they do not help the eye improve, or naturally regain its ability to focus accurately.
That’s where vision therapy comes in. It is a non-invasive and patient-specific treatment regime which is designed to retrain the visual system. The result is permanently improved visual function, as well as a substantial improvement in self-confidence or esteem for successful patients.
As with any type of therapy (such as physio or psychotherapy) no two patients are the same, and what works for one individual may fail completely with another. However, vision therapy has proven a useful and effective treatment for a range of visual deficiencies, including:
Though many patients of vision therapy claim exceptional results, there is no guarantee of success. However, the vast majority of patients experience at least some improvement in their vision – such differences can be life-changing, especially for children.
There are various (and growing) techniques used in vision therapy, depending on the individual needs of each patient – there’s no single treatment, and methods may evolve and change over time.
We are proud have a dedicated team member who is an expert visual therapist. She will meet with you (or your child) and build up a repertoire of exercises, routines and practices which will be employed on a daily basis. This is a key session, as we will also evaluate your child’s visual acuity and how much improvement is being targeted.
There are countless exercises which can be performed, though some may be too advanced or insufficient for a specific problem. Equally as important as the range of equipment, lenses and special instruments used to teach the visual system, is the patient’s own input.
Vision therapy usually involves a lot of “homework” – exercises which must be performed every night for around 30 minutes, perhaps longer. It requires discipline and a lot of self-control, but those who commit 100% to the home exercises tend to produce the best results.
Vision therapy is used for children and adults alike, and it is not our place to say if it is better or more effective than traditional methods. There are so many factors – lifestyle, finances, time, personal opinion – which impact that decision and you should decide carefully. However, if you ever wish to speak to one of our specialists and learn more about what vision therapy is, and how it can help you, then don’t hesitate to give us a call and pop along for a visit.
We are conveniently located at the corner of Peachtree Parkway and South Clement Rd, at the entrance to Creekstone Estates, in the Villages at CreekStone (near the intersection of HWY 141 and Old Alpharetta Rd).
