Studies have found that children who have a learning disability (LD) or have been diagnosed with a specific learning disorder (SLD), exhibit a higher frequency of binocular vision disorders.
Of the study group, it was found that 22.0% of the children had strabismic binocular vision abnormalities, and 78% had non-strabismic anomalies.
It is recommended that children with learning disabilities, or with specific learning disorders, be evaluated for binocular vision anomalies. Binocular vision anomalies can contribute to reading difficulties, and be yet another barrier to learning, among children with learning disabilities or those with specific learning disorders.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get when it comes to binocular vision skills, along with comprehensive answers to those questions.
What is binocular vision?
Binocular vision refers to the ability of the eyes to work together to create one clear visual image. Binocular vision allows us to perceive depth and position in space (relationship between objects).
Does binocular vision affect reading?
Yes! Without proper eye teaming and tracking, close up tasks such as reading become difficult. The printed words on the page can appear to overlap or double, look fuzzy, or seem to wiggle or float.
Does the vision screening at school or the pediatrician's office check binocular vision?
No, vision screenings do not test binocular vision skills. Vision screenings generate less then 4% of the information generated during a comprehensive eye exam, and miss up to 75% of children with vision problems.
Wouldn't my child tell me if they couldn't see well?
Surprisingly, most children who see print in double never mention it to their parents. To them, the way they see words is normal because they've always seen that way.
Are reading problems the only symptom of binocular vision dysfunction?
Not at all. Common symptoms include motion sickness, headaches, an unbalanced gait or slowly drifting to the side when walking, unsure footing, poor eye-hand coordination, clumsiness, and walking or bumping into objects.
Vision therapy can help improve binocular vision skills and reduce binocular vision difficulties– but you need to choose the right eye doctor.
Founded in 1991, our clinic specializes in the assessment and treatment of Binocular Vision Dysfunction, Visual Processing Disorders, Neuro-Optometric Vision Rehabilitation, and Athlete Vision Performance.
If you or your child have a binocular vision difficulty or related learning disorder, it’s important that your eye doctor has completed residency training in binocular vision and vision therapy. Residency provides formal training, a rigorous schedule of patients, an abundance of complex cases, immersion into evidence-based treatment and current research, and the opportunity to co-manage patients with neurologists, ophthalmologists and other specialists.
Advanced Vision Therapy Center is recognized as an industry leader, providing unparalleled treatment results in a patient-centered environment.
Our treatment programs graduate 98.7% of patients within the prescribed number of treatment sessions, with an impressive success rate of 99.3%. That's why our treatment programs are doctor recommended and patient preferred.
If your child is performing below grade-level or failing to reach their full potential, please give us a call to schedule an assessment. The results of the assessment can diagnose Convergence Insufficiency, as well as other binocular vision deficits, or rule it out as a contributing factor to learning difficulties.
To schedule an appointment please call (208) 377-1310. We are accepting new patients and no referral is needed.