How Can Vision Therapy Aid in Concussion Recovery?

Post-concussion vision syndrome

People who suffer from traumatic brain injury (TBI) are often afflicted with problems with their eyesight. Vision problems often accompany a concussion and are caused by disrupted communications between the eyes and brain. Unfortunately, many doctors fail to recognize these problems, so many sufferers never receive treatment. However, vision therapy is available to improve vision and address underlying issues that may lead to vision problems.

Vision problems caused by concussions are not easily recognizable. Most concussions do not result in a loss of consciousness, making it difficult to diagnose them. A doctor can use Vision Therapy for Concussions to improve vision, as this type involves various stages of non-surgical therapeutic procedures. In these stages, patients are treated with targeted exercises and activities which correct vision problems.

Symptoms of a concussion

Symptoms of a concussed person may be challenging to recognize and may include difficulty focusing, double vision, and trouble with eye tracking. People with these conditions may also experience visual motion sensitivity, which causes disorientation when exposed to chaotic environments. In addition, this disorder may lead to a misaligned vertical axis, also known as vertical heterophoria.

Pediatric concussions commonly cause visual symptoms. The clinician must know how to identify and manage these symptoms to maximize patient outcomes. Although most children recover spontaneously within four weeks, a subset may not. Further evaluation and treatment may be necessary if symptoms do not resolve within this time frame. Sometimes, a referral to a Vision Therapy specialist may be required. In some instances, vision therapy is effective for children with concussions.

Visual impairment is another common symptom of a concussion. Visual function is affected in approximately 75% of TBI patients. Common symptoms include reduced acuity, blurred vision, convergence, accommodative disorders, photophobia, and reduced attention. In addition, some concussion patients have difficulty with gross motor skills and posture. Even people with mild concussions will have trouble with these symptoms.

Treatment options

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are medical specialists trained to examine and treat the eye. Patients suffering from vision problems following a concussion should visit an eye doctor for further examination and treatment. Although visual issues often occur after a trauma, they are usually not due to an eye disorder. In some cases, patients may need vision therapy to restore normal function. These professionals perform a comprehensive eye examination that includes eye teaming.

Post-concussion vision problems may be associated with headaches. Treatments for this often involve learning to cope with a headache and can include exercises that can be performed at home. Visual symptoms associated with concussions may be stable for some time but can worsen due to added stress. Vision Therapy may also be beneficial in preventing visible signs after a trauma.

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy

Vestibular rehab is a treatment focused on strengthening and enhancing balance. It is beneficial for athletes who have suffered a concussion. Specifically, it helps build stamina, steadiness, and cardiovascular strength. While symptoms vary, they don't necessarily have to be permanent. In addition, vestibular rehab also improves a patient's overall physical health.

While many concussions result in temporary symptoms, some may last for months. These symptoms may go away once the swelling and inflammation go down. However, other patients may experience lingering symptoms that persist for months. This is because vestibular system damage can cause overactivity and hypoactivity. In other words, the brain may fire too much information without the necessary feedback. As a result, it can be challenging to determine what caused the concussion.