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Vision therapy
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Vision therapy is a program that aims to improve a person’s visual abilities. It uses a variety of means - such as eye exercises, testing, occlusion (patching) lenses and prisms - to treat a range of visual problems. Vision therapy may be used to treat problems such as amblyopia (lazy eye), eye alignment and coordination problems (including turned eyes or squints), poor focus or inadequate eye-hand coordination. Each program is designed to suit the specific needs of the individual.
Good vision is more than seeing fine detail
Vision is the process of deriving meaning from what is seen. It is more than simply the ability to distinguish fine details (visual acuity). Vision also involves:
- Accommodation (focusing)
- Convergence (eye aiming)
- Binocularity (eye coordination)
- Fixation and eye movement abilities
- Eye-hand coordination
- Visual form perception.
Vision continues to develop after birth and is influenced by the visual environment and the individual's experience. Vision problems can exist despite having healthy eyes and seeing clearly, as difficulties can occur in eye muscle control and coordination. People with vision problems may experience visual discomfort when performing visually demanding activities.
Not all vision problems can be corrected by spectacles
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately half the Australian population has some vision problem that requires treatment. While the majority have refractive errors (short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia), in some instances problems can be improved by vision therapy.
Vision therapy is effective for people of all ages; however, its impact is greatest in children and young adults. For example, many children have difficulty coordinating their two eyes. To see something clearly, both eyes must be aimed correctly and focused at the right distance. Any problems with aiming or focusing the eyes can cause a variety of symptoms, including intermittent double vision, blurred vision, headaches and feelings of eyestrain.
Children with these problems often do not complain about them, but may simply avoid tasks, such as reading, which are difficult or cause discomfort. An optometrist may suggest a program of vision therapy to improve eye coordination and focusing.
The vision therapy program
Vision therapy or visual training is specifically designed by an optometrist to meet individual needs. Diagnostic testing, training procedures or exercises, and the use of lenses and prisms may be integral components of the successful treatment of a vision problem. The frequency of consultation, the amount of home training and the duration of the therapy will depend on the nature and severity of the problem being treated and the needs of the patient.
Vision therapy is typically used to improve the coordination and control of eye movements.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- Your optometrist
- Optometrists Association Victoria Tel. (03) 9652 9100.
Things to remember
- Not all vision problems can be corrected by spectacles or contact lenses.
- Vision therapy can treat amblyopia (lazy eye), eye alignment problems (turned eye or squint), eye coordination problems, poorly sustained near focus, inadequate eye-hand coordination, and immature perceptual development.
- Each program is designed to suit the specific needs of the individual.
You might also be interested in:
Eye disorders - focusing problems.
Eyes explained.
Want to know more?
Go to More information for support groups, related links and references.
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This page has been produced in consultation with, and approved by:
Optometrists Association Victoria
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Copyight © 1999/2010 State of Victoria. Reproduced from the Better Health Channel (www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au) at no cost with permission of the Victorian Minister for Health. Unauthorised reproduction and other uses comprised in the copyright are prohibited without permission.
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This Better Health Channel fact sheet has passed through a rigorous approval process. For the latest updates and more information visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au.
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Fact sheet currently being reviewed.
Last updated: July 2008
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Vision therapy is used to treat problems such as lazy eye, eye alignment and coordination, and poor focus. The program involves eye tests and the use of lenses and exercises to improve a person's visual abilities. Vision therapy is most effective for children and young adults. ..
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The information published here was accurate at the time of publication and is not intended to take the place of medical advice. Please seek advice from a qualified health care professional.
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