Vision Therapy After a Concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain is subjected to a sudden impact or jolt, causing it to move rapidly within the skull. This movement can lead to chemical changes in the brain and sometimes physical damage to brain cells. While concussions are often considered "mild" TBIs, they can have significant and long-lasting effects on an individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.  

How a Concussion Can Impact Vision

A concussion can significantly impact vision due to the complex relationship between the brain and the eyes. The visual system, which includes the eyes, optic nerves, and brain, can be disrupted by the force of a concussion, leading to symptoms such as blurred vision, double vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty focusing. 
 

In some cases, individuals may also experience problems with eye tracking, depth perception, and balance. These visual disturbances can affect daily activities, making it challenging to read, drive, or even navigate through space. It is crucial for individuals who have sustained a concussion to undergo an exam with an optometrist who specializes in neuro-optometric rehabilitation to assess and address any vision-related issues as part of their recovery.

Recognizing the Signs of Visual Problems After a Concussion

If you have sustained a concussion, it's important to be aware of the potential visual problems that may arise. Some of the common signs and symptoms of post-concussion visual problems include:
 

• Blurred or double vision

• Sensitivity to light or glare

• Difficulty with depth perception or spatial awareness

• Headaches or eye strain, especially after prolonged visual tasks

• Difficulty with reading, computer work, or other visual tasks

• Dizziness or nausea when moving the head or eyes

• Difficulty with balance or coordination

• Difficulty with motion sensitivity, driving or going into visually busy environments such as stores.

What is Vision Therapy and How Does it Work?

Vision Therapy (also called Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation) is a specialized treatment designed to address visual problems and improve visual function. It is a non-invasive, customized program of visual activities and exercises designed to improve the way the eyes and brain work together. During vision therapy, you'll engage in a series of activities and exercises that target the specific visual problems you're experiencing. These may include:
 

• Eye movement exercises: Activities that help improve eye tracking, focusing, and coordination.

• Visual processing exercises: Tasks that challenge the brain's ability to process and interpret visual information.

• Specialized lenses or prisms: The use of specialized lenses or prisms to help the eyes work together more effectively or to improve peripheral and spatial awareness. 

How Vision Therapy Can Help Improve Vision After Concussion 

Vision therapy can be a vital component of recovery for individuals who have experienced a concussion, as it addresses the visual problems that often arise after such an injury. Concussions disrupt the brain's ability to process visual information, leading to issues like double vision, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing. Through personalized exercises and activities, vision therapy helps retrain the brain and eyes to work together more effectively, improving visual skills such as eye tracking, coordination, and focusing. By addressing these vision issues, therapy can alleviate symptoms, enhance daily functioning, and contribute to a more comprehensive recovery following a concussion.
 

Taking the First Step Towards Regaining Your Visual Function and Well-Being

Experiencing a concussion can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but with the right support and treatment, it is possible to overcome the visual problems that often arise. By understanding the impact of a concussion on your vision and exploring the benefits of vision therapy, you can take the first step towards regaining your visual function and improving your overall quality of life.
 

At New Horizons Vision Therapy Center, we are committed to helping individuals navigate the recovery process and achieve their visual and functional goals. We will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you overcome the visual challenges you're facing.
 

If you or a loved one has experienced a concussion and is struggling with visual problems, schedule a consultation with New Horizons Vision Therapy Center. We are here to guide you through the recovery process and help you regain the visual function you need to thrive. Visit our office in Waunakee, or Waukesha, Wisconsin. Please call (608) 849-4040 to book an appointment today.