Neuro-Rehabilitative Optometry: What Does that Mean?

A Blending of Vision and Rehabilitation

Neuro-rehabilitative optometry is defined as an individualized treatment program for children or adults struggling with visual difficulties as a result of a physical disability, traumatic brain injuries or other events that result in damage to the neurological system. It is a blending of vision and rehabilitation.

This form of treatment is a process designed to help children and adults resolve visual problems that are a result of a functional disorder and/or disorders that affect their visual-perceptual and eye motion skills.

All of the vision problems listed to the left can take their toll on an individual’s learning ability or ability to perform at work. Neuro-rehabilitative optometry can improve or alleviate these difficulties through a course of individualized treatment. It can also help with conditions that may be made worse by visual disturbances. Problems with balance and episodes of vertigo can be diminished or alleviated with a prescribed plan of neuro-rehabilitative therapy.

How will I know if I need neuro-rehabilitative optometry?

After a brain injury occurs, whether it is from outside trauma such as a car accident or there is damage from a medical event such as a stroke, the individual is often left with a communication problem between what the eyes see and how the brain interprets that information. If there is a disruption in the smooth flow of information between your brain and your eyes because of an injury or disease, vision difficulties are a common occurrence.

If you’ve suffered an injury, illness or trauma, you may benefit from the services of a neuro-rehabilitative optometrist if you are experiencing any of the following:

–  Any degree of loss of vision
–  Lack of coordination, increased clumsiness or dizziness
–  Frequent headaches, especially after doing close work or computer work
–  Sensitivity to light or difficulty determining contrast
–  A shortened attention span or loss of concentration
–  Problems walking or maintaining balance, such as bumping into objects
–  Difficulty judging depth perception
–  Discomfort in the eyes, head or neck when reading

Most people who develop a neurological problem begin looking for help by visiting their primary care physician. They may mention their neurological symptoms to the doctor, who may refer the individual to a rehabilitative therapist. This therapist will probably suggest getting a routine eye examination. If there are also balance issues involved, a physical therapy or occupational therapy referral may be suggested. All of these measures may afford some degree of relief, at least on a temporary basis.