Influence of head posture on the visual acuity of children with nystagmus

Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci.

et al. 2017

A strong relationship between VA and nystagmus characteristics exists between individuals with IN. Although significant, the improvement in VA observed within individuals at the null zone is much smaller than might be expected from the occasionally large variations in intensity and foveation dynamics (and anecdotal patient reports of improved vision), suggesting that improvement of other aspects of visual performance may also encourage use of the null zone.

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 92%

mentioning

confidence: 99%

The Effect of Gaze Angle on Visual Acuity in Infantile Nystagmus

Dunn

Wiggins

Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci.

et al. 2017

“…The extent of the wobble can depend on state of health, tiredness, stress level and direction of gaze, so that vision in nystagmus can be highly variable. Most people with nystagmus have a “null point”, which represents a head position in which the nystagmus movements are least and the vision most comfortable (Da Costa et al , 2014). Families and supporters need to allow the person to adopt their chosen null point and not try to enforce straight posture, which will worsen vision.…”

Section: Non-treatable Conditionsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Eye and vision problems associated with learning disabilities

2019

TLDR

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to educate professionals, families and supporters about the importance of ensuring regular eye examinations for the people with learning disabilities. Design/methodology/approach This is a general review of the type and prevalence of visual problems of which people with learning disabilities are most at risk. Findings Eye problems in people with learning disabilities are common but are often over-looked. Practical implications Uncorrected refractive errors mean that people are unnecessarily denied experiences and learning opportunities. Spectacles are a simple solution, and most people can be supported to wear them. Cataracts and keratoconus are conditions that can lead to visual impairment, but which are now treatable and learning disabilities should not be a contra-indication to treatment. Untreatable eye conditions mean lifelong visual impairment, but if this is not recognised, care may be inappropriate or the learning disability assumed to be greater than it is. Originality/value The review describes how families and supporters can organise successful eye examinations, to ensure that no-one with learning disabilities has an eye condition that is not managed appropriately.

“…Many of the interventions available for IN aim to utilize the null zone, which has been shown to improve VA 59. Nystagmats sometimes adopt an AHP to achieve the required gaze position, but long-term use of such head postures may lead to a restriction of neck movement 60.…”

Section: Management By the Optometristmentioning

confidence: 99%

Infantile nystagmus: an optometrist’s perspective

Zahidi

Erichsen

et al. 2017

OPTO

Infantile nystagmus (IN), previously known as congenital nystagmus, is an involuntary to-and-fro movement of the eyes that persists throughout life. IN is one of three types of early-onset nystagmus that begin in infancy, alongside fusion maldevelopment nystagmus syndrome and spasmus nutans syndrome. Optometrists may also encounter patients with acquired nystagmus. The features of IN overlap largely with those of fusion maldevelopment nystagmus syndrome, spasmus nutans syndrome, and acquired nystagmus, yet the management for each subtype is different. Therefore, the optometrist’s role is to accurately discern IN from other forms of nystagmus and to manage accordingly. As IN is a lifelong condition, its presence not only affects the visual function of the individual but also their quality of life, both socially and psychologically. In this report, we focus on the approaches that involve optometrists in the investigation and management of patients with IN. Management includes the prescription of optical treatments, low-vision rehabilitation, and other interventions such as encouraging the use of the null zone and referral to support groups. Other treatments available via ophthalmologists are also briefly discussed in the article.