How do you know if you have a vision deficiency and if vision therapy can help reading?

Dr. Kalie McCartin

Developmental and Neuro-Optometrist

Owner, Visual Processing Institute

Are you struggling with reading, experiencing headaches, or feeling clumsy? These may be signs of a visual processing deficiency. While many people dismiss these symptoms as normal, they could be indicative of an underlying issue that can be addressed.

What is Visual Processing?

Visual processing is a complex neurological function that involves the brain's ability to interpret and understand visual information. It's essential for tasks like reading, writing, and even sports. When visual processing is impaired, it can lead to a variety of challenges.

Common Signs of Visual Processing Deficiencies

1. Reading Difficulties:

   • Difficulty reading aloud or silently

   • Slow reading speed

   • Frequent rereading

   • Blurring or shadowing of words

   • Feeling like words or letters move on the page

   • Skipping words or lines

   • General aversion to reading

2. Physical Symptoms:

   • Headaches or migraines

   • Eye strain

   • Dizziness or poor balance

   • Fatigue

   • Clumsiness or difficulty with fine motor skills

   • Car sickness

3. Cognitive Challenges:

   • Difficulty following directions

   • Poor handwriting

   • Struggling in sports or other physical activities

   • Sensitivity to light or noise

   • Anxiety

   • Discomfort and Anxiety in busy environments (crowds, grocery stores, classrooms)

Why Visual Processing Matters

Visual processing skills are crucial for academic success, professional development, and overall quality of life. When these skills are impaired, it can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and academic difficulties. It's been known for decades that vision therapy can help reading, math, writing, test takeing, and anxiety in general.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional. A developmental or neural optometrist who specializes in visual processing can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options

While the severity of visual processing deficiencies varies, many can be treated effectively. Treatment may involve:

• Vision Therapy: A series of exercises designed to improve visual skills and coordination.

• Optical Aids: Glasses or lenses that can help correct visual problems and improve clarity, however, I normally do NOT prescribe prism as they do not actually treat or cure the underlying deficiency and can actually make the misalignment worse and even cause a lazy eye in adults.

• Avoidance of Near Screen Time: Near illuminated screens such as laptops, computer, cell phones, and tablets have been shown to cause visual processing delays in children and poor postureing and misalignment in teens and adults.

Remember, you don't have to suffer in silence. By addressing visual processing deficiencies early on, you can improve your quality of life and unlock your full potential.

If you're located in the Southern California area, please feel free to contact the Visual Processing Institute to schedule an evaluation with one of our neuro-optometrists.