What Is Neuro-Optometry? Exploring the Link Between Vision and the Brain

Vision is often considered the most dominant of our senses helping us navigate the world, recognize faces, and interact with our surroundings. However, vision is more than just what the eyes see — it's deeply connected to how the brain processes visual information.

That’s the basis of our specialty services at DeyeNAMICS. We offer customized neuro-optometric treatment strategies for a wide range of visual processing issues associated with concussion, stroke, autism, neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s, and others.

Read more from our team regarding neuro-optometry basics and its success in improving quality of life by supporting the link between vision and your brain.     

Understanding Neuro-Optometry

Neuro-optometry goes beyond routine eye exams and glasses prescriptions. It addresses how the eyes and the brain work together to perceive, interpret, and respond to visual stimuli.

A neuro-optometrist evaluates the function of visual pathways in the brain, the control of eye movements, and the integration of vision with other sensory systems.

This field often overlaps with neurology, rehabilitation, and developmental sciences, providing valuable insights and interventions for individuals with brain injuries, developmental conditions, or diseases that impact the visual system.

When Neuro-Optometry Can Help You

Almost anybody can benefit from a neuro-optometric exam, but neuro-optometry is particularly beneficial for the following:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Injuries like concussions can disrupt the connection between the brain and eyes leading to symptoms such as double vision, difficulty focusing, and light sensitivity. These symptoms can impact quality of life by affecting your ability to accomplish certain tasks such as reading, grocery shopping, and driving. Neuro-optometry helps assess and rehabilitate these issues.

Stroke

Vision changes, including visual field cuts (blind spots in vision) and impaired eye coordination, are common after a stroke. Neuro-optometric evaluations help determine the extent of the damage and guide recovery strategies.

Neurological Disorders

Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and other chronic neurological conditions often have visual symptoms, including blurred vision, eye movement abnormalities, and visual field deficits. With a Neuro-optometric examination, we can work with you to set functional visual goals to improve quality of life.

Developmental Delays

Children with developmental challenges, such as autism or ADHD, often have underlying visual processing issues. Neuro-optometric rehabilitation can enhance their ability to process visual information and improve their overall development. This can improve performance in school and improve socialization with peers.

Balance and Coordination Issues

Vision is crucial in maintaining balance. When visual input is disrupted, it can lead to dizziness or vertigo which can result in  injury. Neuro-optometrists work alongside physical therapists and other professionals to restore visual-motor integration.

Key Interventions in Neuro-Optometry

Our team at DeyeNAMICS offers a wide range of interventions tailored to the patient's specific needs.

Some common approaches include:

Vision Therapy

Vision therapy includes customized exercises that help improve visual skills such as tracking, focusing, and eye-hand coordination.  We also offer other therapies that integrate posture and visually guided movement which can improve dizziness and vertigo.

Prism Lenses

These special lenses alter how light enters the eyes by helping to realign the eyes and reduce symptoms like double vision and eye strain.

Tinted Lenses

For individuals sensitive to light, particularly after a concussion or with a migraine disorder, tinted lenses can provide relief. These lenses can also be used for visual snow or static.

Collaborative Care

Our team often collaborates with neurologists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists to create comprehensive rehabilitation plans. We emphasize interprofessional collaboration during the rehabilitation process.

Hope for the Future

As technology and research advance, neuro-optometry continues to grow. Innovations such as virtual reality or VR–based vision therapy and more sophisticated imaging tools are revolutionizing how vision and brain connections are assessed and treated.

If you're experiencing unexplained visual symptoms, recovering from a neurological condition, or living with the challenges of autism, our team can provide the clarity and care you need to improve your quality of life.

Schedule an evaluation at DeyeNAMICS today by calling the office nearest you or reaching out online. We can help.