Changing vergence function in persons with Parkinson's disease and convergence insufficiency
Carolyn M Machan1, Estefania Chriqui2, Caroline Law2
1School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Canada.
Parkinsonism & Related Disorders
|April 3, 2020
Summary
Vergence training improved convergence insufficiency in Parkinson's disease patients. This study shows that vision therapy can enhance visual functions for individuals with both conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology and Neurology
- Neuroscience and Vision Science
Background:
- Parkinson's disease (PD) often presents with neurological deficits impacting visual function.
- Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a common visual disorder characterized by difficulty maintaining eye alignment during near tasks.
Discussion:
- Vergence training, a form of vision therapy, was implemented to address CI in PD patients.
- The training protocol involved specific exercises designed to improve eye teaming and focusing abilities.
Key Insights:
- Significant improvements were observed in positive fusional vergence (PFV) after two months of training.
- A notable decrease in the near point of convergence (NPC) was recorded, indicating enhanced binocular vision.
Outlook:
- These findings suggest that targeted vergence training is a viable therapeutic strategy for managing CI in Parkinson's disease.
- Further research could explore the long-term effects and broader applicability of vision therapy in neurodegenerative conditions.
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