Concussion Information
NORTHERN VIRGINIA DOCTORS OF OPTOMETRY and Dr. Smithson have become a worldwide leader in treatment and rehabilitation of post-concussive vision syndrome. Post concussive vision syndrome is defined as suffering from visual effects post concussion outside of the acute phase of concussion when spontaneous recovery is expected. Dr. Smithson does not diagnose or serve as a primary care provider in suspected head injury. He administers treatment and therapy during the patient’s rehabilitation.
The Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry is the primary referral center for INOVA, Medstar and Children’ Hospital’s concussion centers.
Dr. Smithson is the team optometrist for the Washington Wizards, Mystics, Spirit and D.C. United, as well as the Director of Visual Performance for the Washington Nationals.
Signs of potential post concussion vision syndrome are:
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Inefficient eye focus
- Difficultly with eye tracking
- Balance or coordination problems
- Difficulty with memory or attention span
- Persistent headaches
Many treatment options exist for the above symptoms, from prescription glasses, specialty tints or filters, prism, binocular vision therapy or neurovisual rehabilitation.
Neurovisual rehabilitation is the use of technology to reset or rewire the neurological components necessary for functional an efficient vision. Research into the concept of Neuroplasticity is the basis for the technology and protocols used in Neurovisual rehabilitation. Use of multi sensory input and repetition of therapy are essential to reaching resolution of he above symptoms.
Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry is one of the few centers in the country that uses the NVR system from home therapy systems and the Neurotracker. Both neurological, cognitive and visual rehabilitation systems. Dr. Smithson is available for post concussion evaluations in our Reston and Alexandria offices.
NeuroTracker Concussion Summit
Concussion
American Optometric Association – AOA Focus October 2015
New concussion treatments go beyond just resting in a dark room
To learn more about how a concussion can impact eye muscle focus, please visit homevisiontherapy.com.
To understand eye tracking testing and training related to concussion assessment and training, please visit righteye.com
For more information on products that can help with post concussion light sensitivity, please visit www.acuvue.com/acuvue-oasys-transition-contact-lenses.
Contact us for a concussion evaluation if you are undergoing treatment for concussion and aid a visual component to recovery is suspected.
