Neuro-optometry, also known as neuro-optometric rehabilitation, is a subset of eye care which focuses on visual dysfunction in relation to neurological conditions. The focus of treatment in neuro-optometry is to improve eye teaming, eye tracking, focusing, and balance.
Patients who have suffered from:
- Concussion or other brain injuries
- Stroke
- Poor balance
- Double vision
- Visual snow syndrome
- Visual discomfort while reading or on the computer
- Poor memory
- Anxiety in crowds or visually busy environments
During a neuro-visual exam, your doctor may perform tests that are not normally done in a routine eye exam. They will test how your eyes work together, how they track, as well as test your balance if necessary. These tests will likely put a strain on your eyes so plan to get plenty of rest after your appointment. These appointments are longer than a routine eye exam to account for all the testing.
Some of the testing may include:
- Prism evaluation
- Posturography (balance board)
- Visual processing testing (ex - visual memory)
- Visual field testing (testing your peripheral vision)
- Binocular vision testing (eye teaming, focusing, tracking)
- Ocular health exam
The treatments for these conditions are not a “one-size fits all.” The treatment will be tailored to your specific condition and symptoms. The treatment may not be an instant fix and may require time and effort before you will notice an improvement in your symptoms. These treatments include:
- Glasses
- Prism/yoked prism
- Tints
- Binasal occlusion
- Vision therapy
- Vestibular therapy
- Low vision aides
Brain Injury Facts
Studies show that 90% of traumatic brain injury patients and 86.7% of stroke patients suffer from vision dysfunction. (1)
We see with our brains, not with our eyes.
- Dr. Paul Bach-y-Rita
Brain injuries should not be taken lightly. Even a minor concussion can have lasting effects on the brain and visual function
Treating your visual symptoms after a brain injury is crucial to your recovery. Don't wait to book an appointment for a vision evaluation.
