Orthoptics and 'Visual Stress'

beneton

We've been advised by a teaching support professional, that our 9 year old son may have issues with respect to 'visual stress' aka Meares-Irlen Syndrome and Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome. I am aware of the debates surrounding these diagnoses.

I'd like to see my son assessed for same - not by some propriety institute with an interest in selling coloured lenses - but by an eyecare professional. I understand this is an area for an Orthoptist.

My query: who or what is an Orthoptist and where would I find one?! :-)

Many thanks

blackeyedpeat

Keep things simple.Get a routine eye examination done first by your local optometrists.
They will know if there is any underlying refractive problem ie need for glasses. There may be a weakness in the muscles that co-ordinate the eye movements. Which may require exercises, glasses or prisms, referral to an orthoptist ( like physiotherapy) or an opthalmic surgeon.
Finally there may be issues with the processing of information which may be helped with colored filters and or coloured lenses. There may be a need to see an educational psychologist .
This is a often a multifactoral problem and you may need to visit a few people and or combine therapies to help your child. Hope it is easily resolved.

Foggles

I second what blackeyedpeat said. If there is any visual problems then a full eye exam by an Optometrist should be first. Most visual stress can be resolved by an optical correction, exercises or a change in routine.