Who is a good candidate for prism lenses?

Prism lenses are a type of corrective lens used to correct certain vision disorders, such as double vision or misalignment of the eyes. They work by bending light to help align the eyes and improve vision. Prism lenses are prescribed by our optometrist after a comprehensive eye examination and can be used in combination with other corrective measures such as eyeglasses, vision therapy, and contact lenses.

Who is a good candidate for prism lenses? in Olympia

Patients Suffering From Strabismus

One group of people who may benefit from prism lenses are those with a condition called strabismus, or crossed eyes. This occurs when the eyes are not properly aligned. Symptoms of strabismus include eyes that appear to point in different directions, double vision, and difficulty with depth perception. Prism lenses can help correct this issue by aligning the eyes and improving depth perception.

Patients Suffering From Diplopia

Another group of people who may benefit from prism lenses are those with a condition called diplopia, or double vision. This can occur due to a variety of causes, such as a brain injury or a muscle imbalance in the eyes. Symptoms of diplopia include seeing two images of a single object, blurry or distorted vision, and difficulty with fine motor tasks such as reading or writing. Prism lenses can help correct this by aligning the images seen by each eye and reducing the appearance of double vision.

Take our online double vision assessment to help identify if you may have an underlying vision problem that is causing diplopia (double vision). 

Patients Suffering From Neurological conditions

Furthermore, people with neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or traumatic brain injury may experience vision symptoms that can be aided with prism lenses. In these cases, a neuro-optometric examination may be recommended to evaluate the brain-eye connection, along with any other necessary interventions.

Additionally, prism lenses can be beneficial for a variety of individuals who have vision disorders such as difficulty with fine motor tasks, visual perception, spatial awareness, binocular vision and visual-motor coordination.

It's important to note that prism lenses are just one potential solution for these vision disorders, and our functional optometrist will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. If you are experiencing symptoms such as double vision, crossed eyes, or difficulty with depth perception, don't hesitate to Book an Appointment with our optometrist for a functional eye examination to determine if prism lenses are suitable for you.

The Role of Prisms in Stroke Rehabilitation: Addressing Spatial Neglect

Prisms are a useful tool for people who have suffered a stroke and are experiencing spatial neglect. Spatial neglect is a condition in which a person loses awareness of one side of their body or space around them. This can lead to difficulties with balance, coordination, and depth perception, making it challenging to carry out everyday tasks. However, prisms can be used to address these issues. By wearing prism glasses, the perceived position of objects is shifted, and part of the person's visual field is adjusted, helping to retrain the brain to be aware of the neglected side of the body or space. Studies have shown that the use of prisms in stroke rehabilitation can lead to significant improvements in spatial awareness, balance, and mobility. Prisms can, therefore, be an effective and non-invasive way to aid stroke patients in regaining their independence and quality of life.

Prisms: An Innovative Solution for Central Vision Loss

Prisms can also be a helpful tool for individuals experiencing central vision loss. Central vision loss occurs when the macula, a small but essential part of the retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision, becomes damaged. This condition can make it challenging to read, recognize faces, or perform everyday activities. However, prism glasses can be used to shift the visual field, allowing individuals to better see the objects they are looking at with their peripheral vision. By using prisms to redirect the image, individuals with central vision loss can improve their ability to see and carry out daily tasks. It is essential to consult an eye doctor or specialist to determine the appropriate prism power and placement for each individual, as the right prism prescription can significantly enhance the quality of life for those living with central vision loss.

Corneal Scarring: Improving Visual Function with Prism Lenses

Prism lenses can be a useful option for individuals who have corneal scarring. Corneal scarring can result from injury, infection, or surgery and can cause distorted or double vision. The use of prism lenses can help correct this vision problem by adjusting the way light enters the eye, improving visual acuity, and reducing visual distortion. Prism lenses can be prescribed to correct the alignment of the eyes or to alleviate double vision caused by corneal scarring. It is important to consult with an eye doctor or specialist to determine the appropriate prism power and placement for each individual, as the right prescription can significantly improve the quality of life for those with corneal scarring. With the use of prism lenses, individuals with corneal scarring can experience improved visual function and a better quality of life.

Seeing Clearly: The Top Uses of Prism Lenses in Eye Care and Vision Correction at Neuro Optometry Clinics

  • To correct double vision, which is caused by a misalignment of the eyes.
  • To treat convergence insufficiency, a condition where the eyes have trouble working together when focusing on nearby objects.
  • To treat amblyopia, also known as "lazy eye," a condition where one eye is weaker than the other and does not develop normal vision.
  • To correct vision problems following a traumatic brain injury such as a concussion, stroke.
  • To correct vision problems caused by certain medical conditions such nystagmus, hemianopia, corneal scarring, multiple sclerosis, and parkinsons.
  • To help people with strabismus, a condition where the eyes are not properly aligned.
  • To assist people who have had cataract surgery or other eye surgeries to regain binocular vision.

Common Questions

Prism lenses are recommended in cases where there is a problem with binocular vision, which refers to the ability of the eyes to work together in a coordinated manner. Binocular vision is essential for depth perception and clear, comfortable vision, but it can be disrupted by a number of conditions, including eye muscle imbalances, certain neurological conditions, or traumatic brain injury. Prism lenses work by bending light in a way that helps the eyes work together more effectively, reducing the strain on the visual system and providing clearer, more comfortable vision. They can also help to alleviate symptoms such as double vision, headaches, and eye strain.
Prism lenses are very important for someone who has experienced a traumatic brain injury. One of the common symptoms of someone who had a concussion or TBI is changes to their spatial awareness. This is one of the reasons why gait and posture are evaluated during a neuro optometric evaluation. By altering the apparent position of objects and modifying certain aspects of an individual's visual field, prisms can tackle spatial difficulties such as posture, coordination, balance, and depth perception.
While prism glasses are generally considered safe and effective for those who need them, it's important to note that they are a type of corrective eyewear and are not necessarily "good for your eyes" in the same way that proper nutrition and exercise are. It's important to follow the advice of our eye doctor and use prism glasses as prescribed to ensure the best possible outcomes for your eye health.
Prisms can be used to help treat certain vision problems, including some types of lazy eye. Lazy eye, also known as amblyopia, occurs when one eye is weaker than the other, leading the brain to rely more heavily on the stronger eye and ignore visual input from the weaker eye. This can cause a variety of visual issues, such as reduced depth perception and difficulty reading. In some cases, the use of prism lenses can help to correct the alignment of the eyes, which can improve the visual function of the weaker eye. The prism lenses bend light in a specific way that can help the brain to process visual input from both eyes more effectively. This can help to stimulate the weaker eye and reduce the reliance on the stronger eye. However, it is important to note that prism lenses are not a universal solution for lazy eye, and if recommended it is usually in combination with other treatments such as in office vision therapy. . The best course of treatment for lazy eye will depend on the individual case, and it is essential to consult an eye care professional for a functional eye exam and personalized treatment plan.
Whether or not you can drive with prism glasses depends on several factors, including the severity of your visual impairment and the requirements of your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In general, prism glasses are prescribed to correct specific vision problems, such as double vision or eye muscle imbalances. If these vision issues affect your ability to see clearly while driving, then wearing prism glasses can be important for safe driving. However, it is essential to ensure that your prism glasses do not distort your vision in a way that could impair your ability to see traffic signals, road signs, or other important visual cues while driving. Therefore, it is important to have regular eye exams and consult with our eye doctor to determine whether or not prism glasses are appropriate for driving. To schedule an appointment, please call (360) 491-2121. Patients searching for neuro optometric rehabilitation visit our clinic from all over Washington, and we are proud to be a leading provider of neuro optometry services for patients from Olympia, Lakewood, Tacoma, and Lacey. Additionally, it is important to check with your local DMV to determine whether there are any restrictions on driving with prism glasses. In some states, you may be required to have a special vision exam or provide additional documentation in order to obtain a driver's license while wearing prism glasses.
Prism lenses, like any new corrective lenses, may have an adjustment period as the eyes get used to the new visual input. This can cause some temporary discomfort or headaches as the brain adapts to the changes. In most cases, this adjustment period lasts only a few days to a week, and any discomfort should gradually decrease over time. It is also important to ensure that the prism lenses are properly fitted and adjusted by our qualified optometrist. Poorly fitted lenses, or lenses with incorrect prism power or orientation, can cause discomfort and headaches. If you experience persistent discomfort or headaches with your prism lenses, it is important to schedule a follow-up appointment with our eye doctor to address any concerns and ensure proper fit and adjustment of the lenses. To schedule an appointment, please call (360) 491-2121.
Dr. Zurcher cartoon

Enhance Your Vision with Prism Lenses: Why Consult Our Neuro Optometrist?

If you're experiencing any symptoms of crossed eyes, double vision, or misalignment of the eyes, or if you have a neurological condition, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with our optometrist in Olympia for a neuro-optometric examination. Our optometrist will be able to assess your vision and determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs, including the potential use of prism lenses. Prism lenses are a highly effective way to correct certain vision disorders, but they are not suitable for everyone.

Contact us today at (360) 491-2121 to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards improved vision. Those who have visual conditions such as strabismus and diplopia and are looking for advanced treatment options, such as prism lenses, visit our clinic from all over Washington, and we are proud to be a leading provider of medical eye care services for patients from Olympia, Lakewood, Tacoma, and Lacey.

Testimonials


Such a nice optician. My grandson is only 4 and needs glasses. We were so sad, but he explained the issues, and we will follow up as he suggested.


Anna P.

I had such a good experience with the clinic. Very friendly staff and doctor, did not have to wait for long to be called, and was treated respectfully. Thanks, American Family.


June S.

Dr. Zurcher has gone above and beyond what any other eye doctor has ever done to figure out what is going on with my eyes. Very happy with American Family Vision.


Christine R.

Family Vision Clinic changed our lives! My daughter was frequently car sick, and she was getting headaches every day, often painful enough that they brought her to tears. We saw a string of doctors and therapists, but we made no progress. Finally, we found Dr. Levi Zurcher and his eye therapist Rain. After ten weeks of eye therapy my daughter no longer gets headaches, and she no longer gets car sick. Daily tears are a thing of the past. I really can’t say enough about this clinic. It was fascinating to watch Dr. Zurcher work. For the first time, someone who knew what they were doing was intently studying my daughter, really trying to figure out all of her eye issues, and his therapist Rain is one of the most patient and lovely people that I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. We’re finished with eye therapy—yay!—and I have switched to American Family Vision Clinic for all of my family’s other eye health needs.


Lars Wulff

Very professional, yet kind and helpful. They do what they can to make the appointment comfortable. I was running a bit late, I made sure ti call. They were able to switch me with a patient who was already there, they treated me with respect, and helped my son have confidence by getting him the eye care he needed that day. Thank you so much! Would recommend to anyone. It's a blessing that they care enough to work with people who have all different types of insurance from work to state coverage.


Justin E.

The staff is friendly. The Doc is very knowledgeable. The office is family friendly and everyone is so patient with the little ones.


Amy Fagerness
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