Vision therapy
Vision therapy (or visual training) is a programme of guided exercises that train visual skills: the ability of the two eyes to work together, to converge up close, to focus and to move accurately. It does not replace glasses or contact lenses, but it can complement them when the difficulty does not depend only on the prescription.
When it can help
Vision therapy is mainly aimed at people with difficulties related to binocular vision and focusing, for example:
- convergence insufficiency: difficulty keeping the eyes aligned up close
- focusing difficulties (accommodation) when switching from far to near
- eye strain, headaches or double vision while reading or at the computer, when they are linked to these difficulties
- imprecise eye movements, for example often losing your place while reading
To find out whether it may help you, we always start with a postural optometric assessment.
Children and school
Some children struggle to read, lose their place or tire quickly, not because of a prescription problem but because of a difficulty in the way their eyes work together. In these cases vision therapy can make reading more comfortable.
Vision therapy does not treat dyslexia or other specific learning disorders, which must be assessed by child development specialists; it can, however, help when visual difficulties are present as well.
What it does not do
Vision therapy does not eliminate myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism or presbyopia, which are corrected with glasses or contact lenses. In the presence of strabismus or amblyopia, the programme must be decided together with the ophthalmologist.
How the programme works
- Initial assessment of visual skills
- Personalised exercise plan
- Sessions in store and exercises to do at home
- Regular progress checks and final assessment
Depending on the case, the exercises include convergence training, focusing exercises, eye movement exercises and eye-hand coordination exercises.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a programme last?
Usually 3 to 6 months, depending on individual needs.
Is it suitable for all ages?
Yes, programmes are tailored to children, adults and older people.
Do I need an assessment before starting?
Yes: the initial assessment tells us whether vision therapy is indicated in your case.
More answers in the questions about vision exercises.
How to get started
We start with an initial assessment of your visual skills, in our store in Pieve di Soligo.
Or call us on 0438 83409 · Via Gaetano Schiratti 2, Pieve di Soligo.