Orthoptics

Orthoptics concerns the diagnosis and treatment of eye movement disorders and binocular vision problems, which can result from conditions including strabismus, amblyopia, and diplopia.

If you're experiencing any of the following, you may benefit from orthoptics treatment:

• Double vision
• Lazy eye
• Squint
• Reduced vision
• Headaches
• Eyestrain
• Difficulty with reading or other close work

If you're suffering from any of these symptoms, it's important to seek professional advice from an eye specialist.

Some of the most common conditions that orthoptics treatment is used for include:

• Amblyopia (lazy eye)
• Strabismus (squint)
• Diplopia (double vision)
• Convergence insufficiency
• Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
• Visual tracking problems
• Eye movement disorders resulting from head injuries or neurological conditions

Orthoptic treatment aims to strengthen your eyes and improve their alignment in order to correct vision problems related to eye weakness or misalignment. It is sometimes referred to as vision therapy or visual therapy. Orthoptic treatments are typically non-surgical and performed as an outpatient (i.e. you don't need to stay in hospital), without any invasive elements and thus without the need for anaesthetic. Because of this, orthoptic treatments are very low risk.

Exercises to improve eye coordination

Vision therapy exercises test and strengthen your ability to focus on objects with your eyes.

Prism glasses

Prism lenses work by bending light in a way that helps compensate for weakness in your eye muscles.

Optical devices

Optical devices such as eye patches or specialist lenses can encourage strengthened muscles in your eyes or help you practice to use your eyes together.

During your initial consultation for orthoptics, in order to make a diagnosis, we may need to carry out various tests and scans to assess the function of your eyes and how they work together. These tests may include visual acuity tests, eye movement tests, and various other assessments. Our aim is to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment for you.

Your first consultation is incredibly important because it allows us to understand your condition, assess your needs, and discuss treatment options. We encourage you to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have so that we can ensure that you are fully informed and comfortable with the recommended treatment plan.

At Circle Health Group, we believe in providing personalised care, which means that the treatment plan we recommend will be tailored specifically to your individual needs. We will discuss the various options available to you and work with you to determine the best treatment approach to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

We understand that undergoing any medical procedure can be daunting, but we are committed to making your experience with us as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our team of experienced consultants and healthcare professionals will be with you every step of the way to answer your questions, provide reassurance, and ensure that you receive the best possible care.

We answer some of the most commonly asked questions about orthoptic treatment.

What is an orthoptic clinic?

An orthoptic clinic is a specialised clinic that offers diagnosis and treatment for eye movement disorders and binocular vision problems.

What does orthoptics mean?

Orthoptics is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of certain eye disorders and vision problems. Orthoptists specialise in eye problems including amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (squint), and double vision, as well as problems with eye movements and binocular vision. They work closely with ophthalmologists, who are eye doctors that specialise in medical and surgical eye care.

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:

• Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
• The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
• Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
• Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
• Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
• Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
• Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care

If you would like to learn more about orthoptics, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.

Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in May 2023. Next review due May 2026.

1. What is an Orthoptist?, BIOS
2. What does an orthoptist do?, NHS Royal Free London
3. Orthoptist, NHS
4. Orthoptics, Top Doctors
5. Orthoptics, NHS Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals
6. Orthoptics, NHS East Sussex Healthcare