Vision problems are a common and often overlooked consequence of concussions. These issues can significantly impact recovery and daily functioning, making identification and treatment essential. At Revivo, our Toronto-based physiotherapy and neurology clinic, we emphasize the importance of addressing all aspects of concussion recovery, including visual symptoms. This post delves into the common vision problems associated with concussions, how they are identified, and the available treatment options to support patients in regaining optimal visual function.

Common Vision Problems Post-Concussion

After a concussion, individuals may experience a variety of vision-related issues, including:

Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing or maintaining clear vision.
Double Vision (Diplopia): Seeing two images of a single object, often linked to alignment problems.
Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): Increased discomfort or pain in bright light or when looking at screens.
Visual Field Loss: Partial or total loss of vision in certain areas of the visual field.
Accommodative Dysfunction: Difficulty adjusting focus between near and far objects.
Convergence Insufficiency: Difficulty maintaining eye alignment for close work, leading to eye strain and headaches.
Visual Processing Issues: Challenges with processing and interpreting visual information.

Identification of Vision Problems

Identifying vision problems after a concussion involves a comprehensive evaluation by professionals trained in post-concussion care. This evaluation may include:

Visual Acuity Testing: Assessing the clarity and sharpness of vision.
Refraction Assessment: Determining the appropriate lens prescription to correct refractive errors.
Binocular Vision Assessment: Evaluating the coordination between the eyes.
Visual Field Testing: Checking for areas of vision loss.
Contrast Sensitivity Testing: Assessing the ability to distinguish between fine increments of light and dark.
Neuro-Optometric Assessment: A specialized examination focusing on visual disturbances that arise from neurological issues, including concussions.

Treatment Options for Vision Problems Post-Concussion

The treatment for vision problems resulting from a concussion is tailored to the individual’s specific symptoms and may involve a combination of approaches:

Corrective Lenses: Glasses or contact lenses with a specific prescription to address refractive errors or binocular vision problems.
Prism Lenses: Special lenses that help realign vision and reduce symptoms like double vision.
Vision Therapy: A structured program of visual exercises designed to improve visual functions, such as focusing, eye tracking, and coordination. Vision therapy is often conducted by an optometrist specializing in neuro-visual rehabilitation.
Oculomotor Training: Exercises to improve control over eye movements, enhancing the ability to track moving objects and shift focus between objects at different distances.
Light Sensitivity Management: Recommendations for managing photophobia, such as using tinted lenses or adjusting lighting environments.

The Role of Multidisciplinary Care

Given the complex nature of post-concussion vision problems, a multidisciplinary approach to care is often most effective. Collaboration between optometrists, neurologists, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals ensures comprehensive management of visual symptoms as part of the broader concussion recovery process.

Conclusion

Vision problems can significantly affect recovery and quality of life after a concussion. Early identification and appropriate treatment of these issues are crucial steps in the rehabilitation process. At Revivo, we are committed to providing holistic care for concussion patients, including the management of vision problems. By addressing visual symptoms with tailored treatment plans and a multidisciplinary approach, we support our patients in achieving a full and functional recovery.