ADHD is a challenging disorder that affects millions of children and adults worldwide. While traditional methods of treatment like medication and therapy have been used to help manage these symptoms, vision therapy may also be an option for some with ADHD. Vision therapy is a form of physical therapy used to improve visual processing. In this blog post, we will explore the basics of vision therapy for ADHD, its benefits, how it works, and who it could be most beneficial for.
Contents
What is Vision Therapy?
Vision therapy is an individualized, supervised, treatment program designed to correct visual-motor and/or perceptual-cognitive deficiencies. The therapist works with the patient to improve skills such as eye tracking, eye teaming, and depth perception. These exercises often involve the use of specialized equipment, such as prism lenses and computerized programs.
Vision therapy can be used to address a variety of issues, including visual impairments, vision-related learning difficulties, and the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Studies have shown that vision therapy may help improve attention and focus in children with ADHD, as well as improve reading comprehension and performance.
How Does Vision Therapy Help ADHD?
Vision therapy can help improve the symptoms of ADHD by improving the functioning of the visual system. The visual system is responsible for processing information from the eyes and sending it to the brain.
When the visual system is not functioning properly, it can cause problems with attention, focus, and concentration. Vision therapy can help improve the functioning of the visual system and help alleviate the symptoms of ADHD.
Also, there are other ways that vision therapy can help people with ADHD. It can help improve eye coordination, tracking, and focusing skills which are important for reading and school activities. Additionally, it can help improve spatial awareness and visual memory which are important for mathematics and problem-solving tasks.
Finally, vision therapy may also help decrease stress levels in those with ADHD. Research has found that vision therapy can help improve the way people with ADHD interact with their environment, helping to decrease some of the symptoms associated with the condition.
Techniques of Vision Therapy
Many different techniques can be used in vision therapy, and the specific approach will depend on the individual needs of the patient. However, some common techniques that may be used include:
Visual-Vestibular Therapy
One of the most common techniques used in vision therapy is visual-vestibular therapy. This technique helps to improve the coordination between the eyes and the brain, as well as improve balance and coordination. The patient may be asked to perform various activities while wearing a special piece of equipment called a “vestibular mask”.
Visual Perceptual Therapy
One type of vision therapy that has been used to help individuals diagnosed with ADHD is visual perceptual therapy. This type of therapy helps improve visual processing, which can be an issue for people with ADHD. Through the use of activities such as puzzles, mazes, and tracking exercises, this form of vision therapy seeks to strengthen a person’s ability to accurately process what they see.
This type of therapy can also help improve focus and attention, as well as other skills related to visual processing. Visual perceptual therapy is gaining in popularity for its potential to provide significant improvements in a person’s ability to perform activities such as reading, writing, and mathematics.
Pros and Cons of Vision Therapy for ADHD
Everything has its pros and cons, including vision therapy for ADHD. Here are some of the pros:
Pros
• Improved focus: Studies have shown that vision therapy can improve visual skills, which leads to improved focus in children with ADHD. The improvement in focus is not just limited to tasks that require visually-oriented skills but also applies to tasks that require the integration of visual and cognitive skills.
• Improved performance: According to studies, vision therapy can also lead to improved performance in academic subjects such as mathematics. This is because children with ADHD who receive vision therapy are better able to focus on the task at hand and access information from their environment appropriately.
• Improved social interactions: Vision therapy can also help with social interactions as it can improve the ability to accurately gauge distances between objects, recognize facial expressions, and interact appropriately with peers.
However, vision therapy for ADHD also has its downsides:
Cons
• Cost: Vision therapy can be expensive due to the cost of equipment and professional fees. Also, many insurance companies do not cover the cost of vision therapy, so this could be a significant barrier for some families.
• Time commitment: Vision therapy often requires multiple visits over an extended period, which can be difficult for families with busy schedules. Time commitment can also be an issue for some children, who may not have the patience to sit through long and repetitive sessions.
• Limited evidence: There is limited scientific evidence on the efficacy of vision therapy for ADHD and more research needs to be done in this area.
• Risk of side effects: Vision therapy is generally considered safe but there is a small risk of side effects, such as dizziness and headache.
Therefore, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if vision therapy is the right approach for a child with ADHD.
How to Find a Qualified Vision Therapist?
There are many ways to find a qualified Vision Therapist. It is important to do your research before committing to any particular therapist, as this will ensure that you are getting the best possible care.
- The first step in finding a qualified Vision Therapist is to start by asking family members and friends if they can recommend someone they have used in the past or if they know someone who is currently receiving Vision Therapy. This can be a great way to get an honest opinion about the quality of care that a particular therapist provides.
- Another option for finding a qualified Vision Therapist is through referrals from your primary care physician or optometrist. They may know of therapists in your area and can provide you with information about their credentials, experience, and any awards or accolades they have received.
- You can also check online to find a Vision Therapist in your area. Mantracare is a leading online directory of qualified Vision Therapists. They have an extensive list of providers that are certified in providing Vision Therapy services and can help you find the right person for your needs. You should also ask any potential therapists about their experience and qualifications.
Conclusion
Vision therapy has been a successful treatment option for those with ADHD, and is something to consider if your child’s symptoms are not improving with other treatments. It can be used alongside traditional therapies like medication and behavioral therapy to help manage the condition better. While it may take some time and patience to see results, vision therapy can be an important part of an overall treatment plan for ADHD. If you think your child might benefit from vision therapy, speak with their doctor about options within your area.
For more information, please contact MantraCare. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. If you have any queries regarding Online ADHD Counseling experienced therapists at MantraCare can help: Book a trial ADHD therapy session
