YAKIMA, Wash., Nov. 22, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Washington Vision Therapy Center offers treatment that can help with eye conditions that mimic or be confused with dyslexia. The symptoms of dyslexia vary from child to child, but over 2 million students nationwide struggle with learning disabilities that often affect their ability to read. A number of these students are affected by dyslexia. Dyslexia is a condition that affects how the brain processes written and spoken language. Though primarily considered a reading disability, dyslexia can also affect writing, spelling and speaking. People affected by this chronic condition have difficulty with phonological awareness, or being able to break the letters of written words into the distinct building blocks or sounds of language.
Dr. Benjamin Winters at Washington Vision Therapy Center offers vision therapy that treats conditions that exhibit dyslexia-like symptoms. According to Dr. Winters, "The way that we see the world actually requires very complex coordination between our eyes and our brains. Sometimes children have issues with binocular vision that exhibits symptoms very similar to dyslexia and it adversely affects their ability to learn to read and achieve academically. The earlier we can treat these issues, the more success they will see in the classroom."
Correct binocular vision requires both eyes to work together to aim simultaneously at the same object as a coordinated team which provides accurate images to the brain and aids in depth perception. When the eyes do not operate as a team, the image is skewed and depth perception is affected. Students will display difficulties in reading and academic work, just like those diagnosed with dyslexia.
In order to diagnose binocular vision impairment, the trained developmental optometrists will conduct a thorough initial evaluation and diagnostic workup. In addition to taking a detailed patient history, the doctors will conduct a comprehensive assessment to evaluate the child’s visual perception, eye teaming, focusing, tracking, focusing, and eye-hand coordination skills. Based on these test results, the optometrist can make recommendations for a personalized plan of care. Vision therapy is much like physical therapy for the eyes. Treatment includes visits with the therapist once or twice a week for a period of two to twelve months. During these visits, the patient will undergo treatment that includes procedures using lenses, prisms, exercises and occlusion.
According to Dr. Winters, the benefits of vision therapy are significant. "We have seen patients improve greatly once they start therapy. Suddenly, it is like everything falls into place for them. Reading becomes easier. Grades and behavior improve dramatically."
Washington Vision Therapy Center is located at 303 S 72nd Avenue, Yakima, Washington, 98908. To make an appointment for an initial developmental vision evaluation and diagnostic workup or to inquire about vision therapy services, contact the office at 509-654-9256. The office is open regularly from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.