Comparison of Three Vision Therapy Approaches for Convergence Insufficiency

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Vision Science

Background:

• Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a common binocular vision disorder.
• Effective treatment strategies for CI are crucial for improving visual function and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of three active vision therapy approaches for convergence insufficiency (CI) in adults.

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical trial involving 84 adult patients with symptomatic CI.
• Three groups: home-based vision orthoptic therapy (HBVOT), office-based vision orthoptic therapy (OBVOT), and augmented office-based vision orthoptic therapy (AOBVOT).
• AOBVOT included over-minus lenses and base-out prisms in addition to standard office and home therapy.

Main Results:

• All groups showed significant improvements in exophoria, positive fusional vergence (PFV), near point of convergence (NPC), stereoacuity, and CI Symptom Survey (CISS) scores.
• The AOBVOT group demonstrated the greatest improvements in PFV and CISS scores.
• While all treatments were effective, augmented office-based therapy showed superior outcomes in specific measures.

Conclusions:

• Augmented office-based orthoptic treatment is a relatively more effective approach for adults with CI.
• Vision therapy, particularly the augmented office-based approach, offers significant benefits for CI patients.