What Is Post-Traumatic Vision Syndrome?

Post-traumatic vision syndrome (PTVS) affects how the brain processes visual information leading to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact daily life.

PTVS is a frequent complication of concussions, a common type of traumatic brain injury in the United States, affecting millions annually. Strokes are another common cause of PTVS. The American Stroke Association estimates that 65% of stroke survivors have vision problems.

Fortunately, our neuro-optometric rehabilitation team at DeyeNAMICS offers effective treatments to help patients with PTVS regain visual function and improve their quality of life. Learn more about PTVS below and how neuro-optometric rehabilitation can retrain your brain’s visual processing abilities.

Understanding Post-Traumatic Vision Syndrome

PTVS occurs when the brain’s ability to interpret and coordinate visual signals is disrupted due to trauma.

Unlike typical vision problems involving the eyes, PTVS stems from neurological impairment. This means that while the eyes may be healthy, the brain struggles to process visual information correctly. This then impacts the overall functioning of the eyes.

Common symptoms of PTVS include:

• Blurred or double vision
• Difficulty tolerating busy environments
• Difficulty tracking moving objects
• Light sensitivity (photophobia)
• Trouble focusing or reading
• Poor depth perception
• Headaches and dizziness
• Eye strain and fatigue
• Balance and coordination issues
• Difficulty reading (reduced comprehension, having to re-read to understand, or words moving around the page)

These symptoms can make everyday tasks such as driving, reading, and even walking challenging, sometimes impossible, leading to significant frustration and a decreased quality of life.

How Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Helps

Neuro-optometric rehabilitation utilizes specialized visual therapy techniques designed to retrain the brain’s visual processing abilities.

Every case of PTVS impacts those affected in  unique ways, requiring a personalized approach to rehabilitation. Many patients see significant improvements in their visual function over time, though recovery duration varies depending on the severity of the brain injury and the consistency of therapy.

Our neuro-optometrists at DeyeNAMICS work to restore proper visual function and alleviate symptoms through customized exercises and interventions.

Key Components of Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation for PTVS

Rehab strategies are personalized to meet your needs and may include:

Prism Lenses

Specially designed prism lenses can help correct visual and postural misalignment and ease visual strain including double vision and difficulty focusing the eyes.

Vision Therapy Exercises

Targeted visual exercises help strengthen eye coordination, focus, and tracking abilities. These exercises may include the use of prisms, charts, flippers, and filters. They will also often include activities to take home between sessions.

Light Therapy

Specific wavelengths of light can stimulate neural pathways and enhance visual processing.

Balance and Coordination Training

Vision is closely tied to balance. Neuro-optometric therapy can incorporate activities to improve spatial awareness and improve balance.

Tinted Lenses

Colored lenses can reduce light sensitivity and enhance contrast perception. They can also ease visual strain and provide a calming effect.

Restoring Your Vision After Brain Injury

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of PTVS following a brain injury, schedule a visit at DeyeNAMICS. We have offices in California, Connecticut, Iowa, and Texas. Choose the nearest location and give us a call today.