More of the human brain is dedicated to vision and its integration with other senses than any other sensory modality. Nerve pathways that control vision are extremely complex and therefore very susceptible to damage during strokes, falls, whiplash and other trauma. We also know that patients who have experienced any injury to the brain almost always have symptoms related to their vision.
The problem is that visual problems are often overlooked during initial treatment of brain injury. Medical teams understandably focus on life threatening issues first but it is important to address the visual symptoms that affect the person’s quality of life.
Regular eye exams that simply test the clarity of vision at distance and at near often do not reveal the extent to which the visual process has been affected.
What does a Neuro-Optometric evaluation involve?
A neuro-optometric evaluation involves a comprehensive evaluation of sensory motor, visual field, eye focusing, eye teaming and eye control and ocular heath. It also involves the evaluation of visual processing and how it relates to cognitive deficits, spatial-visual relations, balance and postural control.
Neurological-optometric evaluations may result in optical aids such as customised spectacles and/or visual rehabilitation options.
Neuro-optometrists frequently coordinate their care with other health care professionals and rehabilitation specialists such as occupational, physical and speech therapists.
Who could benefit from a Neuro-optometric exam?
Concussion
Patients with concussion are believed to have mild traumatic brain injury or mTBI. Patients post-concussion may experience visual processing difficulties, nausea, motion sickness and light sensitivity even when they have been cleared to return to normal activities. A near-optometric evaluation can help resolve symptoms and ensure that there are no continued functional problems.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury occurs from external trauma to the head following a car accident, a sports injury or a fall. 90% of patients with TBI suffer with visual difficulties after the incident. This includes blurred vision, double vision, light sensitivity, headaches and visual field loss.
Progressive Neurological Impairments
Patients with Parkinsons, Alzheimers or Multiple Sclerosis can have detrimental vision-related difficulties that affect eye movements, mobility, perception and speed of processing. These patients may benefit from neurological vision rehabilitation that may help expand the connectivity in their declining brain areas.
Other patients who could benefit include patients who are:
Post Stroke
Children with developmental problems
Anyone experiencing dizziness, balance problems or double vision
Anyone who has stopped visual activities they no longer cope with (such as reading and avoiding crowds)
If you or somebody you know is suffering from any post-injury vision problems, remember that quality of life can be improved with intervention. For many patients relief can be found with the use of specialised glasses and vision therapy and long-term improvements are possible.