Convergence insufficiency, sometimes called lazy-eye, is the when both eyes fail to work together when focusing on objects up-close. One eye will turn outward, rather than both eyes remaining focused on the object or the person will need to work very hard to keep both eyes working together, causing strain. This strain frequently causes headaches, double vision or blurry vision. Children with convergence insufficiency may have problems with concentration and reading. The Optometrists Network indicates that anywhere between 2.5% and 13% of children have some degree of convergence insufficiency. [2]
Traditional Treatment for Convergence Insufficiency
Treatment for convergence insufficiency has traditionally been a series of exercises to be completed by the child at home, known as pencil push-ups. A computer program to help in developing the muscles is also available and can be prescribed by an eye therapist, or orthoptist. The computer program allows the patient to print out results and bring to the orthoptist for review.
The use of prism glasses can help to decrease the symptoms of convergence insufficiency in some people. This treatment, however, does not improve the eye-muscle coordination long-term. People using prism glasses can become dependent on the glasses without any improvement when not wearing the glasses.
Recent Research on Vision Therapy
A study completed by the National Institutes of Health examined results of 221 children with convergence insufficiency. In the study, the children were divided into four groups.
- One group completed home-based exercises (pencil push-ups) five times per week for 15 minutes each session.
- One group completed the same exercises at home, for a shorter period of time, and added the computer-based therapy at home.
- One group received weekly office based therapy and completed home-based exercises, specifically designed to improve convergence insufficiency, five times per week.
- One group received weekly office based therapy and completed home-based exercises, but the exercises were not specifically designed to improve convergence insufficiency.
The Results of the Research
According to the results of the study, which were published in the October 13, 2008 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, the third group, those who received a combination of intensive weekly vision therapy in the office along with performing specific exercises at home, showed the greatest improvement. [1]
All of the treatments used resulted in some improvement in children with convergence insufficiency:
- In the first group, 43% of children showed improved symptoms.
- In the second group, 33% of children showed improved symptoms.
- In the third group, 75% of children showed improved symptoms.
- In the fourth group, 35% of children showed improved symptoms.
Some children, therefore, will be helped no matter which therapy is used, however, the study clearly shows a much better chance of success when weekly office therapy is combined with home-based exercises.
Sources:
[1] “Office Based Treatment Best for Childhood Vision Disorder”, 2008, Oct 20, Author Unknown, National Institutes of Health
[2] “What is Convergence Insufficiency”, 2008, Author Unknown, Optometrists Network
“Convergence Insufficiency”, 2005, Author Unknown, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
Eileen Bailey - Eileen Bailey is a freelance writer. She began her writing career almost 20 years ago writing marketing material and sales presentations. ...
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