Binasal occlusion is a technique used in neuro-optometric rehabilitation to reduce strain on the visual system, which can improve your gait and balance.
In the United States, an estimated 1.5 million people suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Over 50,000 people die from these injuries each year, 230,000 people are hospitalized and survive, and about 80,000-90,000 people experience long-term disabilities. According to the Neuro Optometric Rehabilitation Association 90% of TBI and stroke patients experience visual deficits following their injury.
When a person suffers a traumatic brain injury, the brain's visual pathways can be disrupted. When nerve fibers within the brainstem are disrupted, the balance system and orientation systems are adversely affected. The experience of walking in unfamiliar environments or crowded areas, such as malls, can be overwhelming. The purpose of the binasal occlusion is to help with spatial orientation. Many patients have benefited from this treatment. When individuals walk using binasal occlusion, they report feeling more stable and secure. As a result of binasal occlusion, the patient is encouraged to rely more on their peripheral vision.
Typically, it is recommended to wear binasal occlusion for 2 weeks up to 6 months depending on the patient’s condition. Remember that neuro optometric rehabilitation is tailored to every patient. With the introduction of other therapies and improvement of spatial orientation, the importance of occlusion decreases. In many cases, it is recommended to utilize this treatment several hours a day, and in some cases, the patient is encouraged to wear it the vast majority of the time. Our neuro optometrist will assess your condition and determine the appropriate duration for wearing binasal occlusion. Binasal prescriptions may be worn both for reading and for distance vision.
Binasal occlusion can enhance the effectiveness of occupational and physical therapy programs when prescribed by a qualified neuro optometrist.
An important benefit of binasal occlusion is that you are able to walk with a sense of increased visual stability. If you have trouble walking comfortably and do not have a steady gait, binasal occlusion may be of benefit to you. With binasal occlusion, patients often report that the floor is no longer moving, so they feel better. The use of yoked prisms or base in prisms can be combined with binasal occlusion in some cases to improve balance.
Binasal occlusion, under the guidance of a neuro optometrist, may be used to improve the following visual conditions:
It's important to note that binasal occlusion may not be appropriate for all individuals with these conditions and should be done under the guidance of our qualified neuro optometrist. Additionally, binasal occlusion is typically only one component of a larger treatment plan that may include vision therapy, specialized lenses and prisms, and other therapies.
Several methods can be used to apply binasal occlusion as part of neuro optometric rehabilitation:
Sticker or patch: A small sticker or patch can be placed on the nose bridge of eyeglasses to block the nasal portion of the visual field.
Glasses with occlusion lenses: Glasses can be made with lenses that have one or both sides covered or partially covered to achieve the occlusion.
Tape: Some individuals may choose to apply tape directly to their skin to achieve binasal occlusion, though this method is less common and not recommended without the guidance of our qualified eye care professional.
The method of application will depend on the individual's specific needs and the recommendation of our eye doctor or vision therapist.
If you don’t already have a trusted optometrist or you live too far from our optometry clinic in Santa Clarita, you could start your online search by typing in phrases such as "eye doctor near me," "neuro optometrist near me," or "eye specialist near me."
Binasal occlusion, as part of neuro-optometric rehabilitation, might be beneficial if you have experienced a traumatic brain injury and have difficulty walking, maintaining proper balance, being in a crowded environment, or if you suffer from any of the visual conditions listed above. Please call (661) 775-1860 to schedule a neuro optometric evaluation with Dr. Garbus, FAAO. Those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury and suffer from visual impairment visit our neuro optometry clinic from all over California, and we are proud to be a leading provider of neuro-optometric rehabilitation services for patients from Santa Clarita, Palmdale, Lancaster, and San Fernando Valley.
My eight year old daughter was terrified to go to the eye doctor for fear of her eyes being dilated. The doctor was SO KID friendly! He immediately made her comfortable by engaging her in conversation. It was a geat experience.
Dr. Garbus spent an amazing amount of time to solve my very complicated visual problems. Over the years he has continually achieved results beyond what others felt possible. He is always up to date on the latest science. He is great!
Family Vision Care Valencia makes it so easy. Staff is knows what they are doing and Dr. Garbus is thorough and kept me well informed during the exam.
I have been coming to Family Vision Center for almost 20 years. Dr. Garbus has been able to help my vision when other doctors could not. Now my kids see him as well. I highly recommend this office!
The Doctor is very good. I felt on this visit he seemed rushed. I had questions to ask him but he was already with another patient. I still do not know if my eyes are the same , worse, or better.
All the staff is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, and has been for all the years I have been going there.
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