Convergent Eye Aiming Exercises

Eye exercise is not really exercise in the generally accepted definition of the word, because the eye does not normally need muscular development. Convergent eye aiming exercise is actually a visual training program that helps to improve eye coordination, which in turn allows the patient to focus on objects that are near with less stress and effort. Because approximately one in 10 school children have convergence issues, the emphasis has been on childhood remedies, but adults can benefit from convergent eye aiming exercises, too.

Identification

• The inability to align the eyes on objects that are near at hand is a problem with convergence.

Significance

• Convergence problems can lead to mental and visual fatigue, temporary deterioration of visual acuity, misjudgment of depth perception and headaches.

Misconceptions

• Convergence excess is most successfully treated by the use of prescription glasses because convergent eye aiming exercises are not normally successful with this type of convergence problem.

Function

• Convergence insufficiency is most effectively treated with a combination of eye aiming exercises that are conducted both at home and in the optometrist's office under the supervision of a trained eye care professional.

Benefits

• Convergent eye aiming exercises are typically simple to perform and many patients who practice these exercises on a daily basis experience significant improvement within the first month.

Fun Fact

• Optometrists who specialize in eye training programs, or eye aiming exercises, are frequently members of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development.