Testimonials

Convergence Insufficiency

Convergence Insufficiency is a common eye muscle coordination problem. When a person is reading or doing close work, the eyes cross slightly to maintain single vision. This usually happens easily and without much effort. In convergence insufficiency, the eyes have difficulty turning in for near work, and want to turn out instead. The eyes are working very hard to maintain single vision at near, and this additional effort can cause a host of symptoms:

Eyestrain
Headaches
Blurred Vision
Double vision
Difficulty concentrating/poor attention
Loss of place while reading
Skipping words or skipping lines while reading
Slow speed of reading
Reduced reading comprehension

Convergence insufficiency is found in 5% of the population, and it typically appears in childhood, often by 1st grade. It can only be detected through an eye examination and is usually missed on vision screenings. Children with convergence insufficiency are often misdiagnosed as having ADHD or learning disabilities. This is why a thorough eye examination by a developmental optometrist is an important first step when learning problems are present!

Treatment for Convergence Insufficiency

Vision Therapy is the most effective treatment for convergence insufficiency. Vision therapy is conducted once a week in the office and home activities are prescribed for daily practice. These activities strengthen the eye muscles, as well as strengthen the brain’s ability to control the eye muscles! Convergence Insufficiency is often found with other vision problems such as eye tracking problem, eye focusing problems, and often visual processing deficits. (each link to own page)