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sports vision therapy for athletes

Sports Vision Therapy: 5 Surprising Benefits for Athletes

Athletes who are looking to enhance and strengthen their skills and abilities often turn to sports vision therapy to up their game. However, athletes tend to focus on the direct performance benefits of these programs, such as improved hand-eye coordination, quicker reaction times, and enhanced peripheral awareness. But there’s more to this specialized training than meets the eye. Beyond boosting on-field performance, sports vision therapy offers many more surprising, lesser-known benefits that can significantly impact an athlete’s career and overall well-being.

Scholarship and Career Opportunities

For young athletes aspiring to compete at the collegiate or professional level, sports vision therapy could be a game-changer. Many top-level programs, especially at the collegiate level, recognize the advantages that vision training offers. As a result, athletes who demonstrate these heightened visual skills may stand out to scouts and recruiters. In fact, it could indeed be the edge that earns an athlete that crucial scholarship offer or a coveted spot on a professional team. With so many athletes competing for limited offers, having an extra tool that boosts performance—and sets an athlete apart—can be a deciding factor.

Lower Risk of Injury

Injury prevention is an important but often overlooked benefit of sport vision therapy. Athletes who improve their peripheral awareness, depth perception, and reaction times are better equipped to avoid dangerous collisions, falls, or movements that could lead to injury. Whether it’s dodging an opponent in soccer or adjusting quickly to an unexpected movement in basketball, athletes with sharp visual processing are more likely to prevent accidents before they happen.

Career Longevity

Athletic careers, particularly at the professional level, are notoriously short, but sports vision therapy offers a unique way to extend an athlete’s career. Injuries and declining performance can often force athletes to retire earlier than they’d like. So it goes to reason that those who have enhanced their visual skills can prolong their career by maintaining peak performance even as they age and compete with younger, faster players.

Increased Confidence

Confidence plays a vital role in how athletes perform under pressure. Vision training can help build this confidence by providing athletes with the tools they need to make better, faster decisions. When athletes feel certain about their ability to react swiftly and accurately, they’re more likely to trust their instincts in high-stakes situations. Not only do these enhanced visual skills lead to quicker and more confident decisions on the court or field, but that confidence can extend beyond the game, allowing athletes to better handle stressful situations in daily life.

Focus in Everyday Life

Sports vision therapy can certainly play an important role in athletic performance. However, it can also have profound effects on an athlete’s cognitive function. Improved mental agility, focus, and concentration are by-products of vision training, and these skills carry over into day-to-day life. Whether it’s in school, in business, or personal activities, athletes who participate in sports vision therapy often report better focus, faster problem-solving abilities, and enhanced attention to detail. This can go a long way in helping athletes balance the demands of sports with other aspects of their lives, such as school, work, or personal relationships. It’s one of the more unexpected benefits of vision training that extends well beyond the playing field.

Family Vision Development Center Helps Athletes Succeed

At Family Vision Development Center, we specialize in individualized sports vision therapy programs. We understand that each sport, and each athlete, is different and we tailor each program to meet those specific needs. But this vision training is much more than just another tool to improve athletic performance. In fact, the benefits of this program can enhance an athlete’s entire career and life. From earning scholarships and career opportunities to increasing confidence, preventing injuries, and extending career longevity, the benefits are far-reaching. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to learn more about our programs and to schedule an appointment.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

 

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vision challenges of aging

Handy Tips to Overcome 4 Common Age-Related Vision Challenges

As we age, it’s natural for our bodies to change, and our vision is no exception. Vision challenges often become more noticeable over time, making everyday tasks like reading, driving, and working more difficult. While these issues can be frustrating, many age-related vision problems are manageable with the right approach. Understanding these challenges and taking proactive steps can help maintain clear vision and improve overall quality of life.

Presbyopia

One of the most common vision challenges experienced after the age of 40 is presbyopia. This condition makes it harder to focus on close objects, such as reading a book or using a smartphone, due to the hardening of the eye’s lens. Chances are, you will experience some form of this condition at some point as you age, so take note of these helpful solutions:

  • Reading glasses – sometimes, a little magnification can go a long way in correcting this problem. These glasses can be worn when necessary and can be prescribed by an eye doctor or even purchased over the counter
  • Bifocals or trifocals – For those already wearing glasses or contact lenses, bifocals, trifocals, or progressive lenses can help. These lenses have multiple focal points, allowing you to see clearly at both near and far distances.
  • Surgical options – Procedures like LASIK or conductive keratoplasty can provide a more permanent solution.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. It is often caused by increased pressure within the eye.  Glaucoma can occur at any age but it is one of the vision challenges that is more common in older adults. It is also one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60. Because vision loss from glaucoma is often gradual and symptoms can vary greatly, certain precautions should be taken:

  • Regular vision exams – Early detection is essential for the best treatment success. Therefore, regular visits to our office can help detect the problem quickly, and slow or even prevent vision loss from occurring.
  • Prescription eye drops – If high eye pressure is detected, glaucoma eye drops can reduce the risk that it will progress to glaucoma.
  • Lifestyle changes – Regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet can help reduce your risk of developing glaucoma.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects the central part of the retina, known as the macula, leading to blurred or distorted central vision. While peripheral vision usually remains intact, activities like reading, recognizing faces, and driving can become difficult. This is another one of the vision challenges that can show little to no symptoms in the early stages, so regular vision exams are very important to detect the condition as early as possible. Once diagnosed, there are some ways to help manage it:

  • Lifestyle changes – A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help slow the progression of AMD.
  • Nutritional supplements – Some studies show that certain vitamins (C, E, zinc, and beta-carotene) can slow the progression of AMD.
  • Injections and laser treatments – anti-VEGF drugs that get injected into the eye, as well as therapy that combines injections with these medications can help stop further vision loss.

Cataracts

Cataracts are another common vision challenge that typically begin to develop around the age of 60 or older. The lens of the eye becomes cloudy, which can result in blurry vision, light sensitivity, glare and difficulty seeing at night. There is, fortunately, a way to treat cataracts:

  • Surgery – Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries in the U.S. and is the only way to remove cataracts and restore your clear vision. During this procedure, the clouded natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens that permanently stays in the eye.

Protect your Vision and Overcome Vision Challenges with Family Vision Development Center

One of the main takeaways here is that early detection can make a significant difference in treatment for many common vision challenges. When your care is handled by the Family Vision team, we help to ensure your healthy vision at all stages. Regular vision exams help us detect and monitor the progression of many conditions, implementing the appropriate treatment options as quickly as possible in order to see the best results. Additionally, we help our patients manage their vision conditions by prescribing the right medications, or making suggestions for ways to improve daily vision needs, such as with low vision aids, protective eyewear or lifestyle enhancements. Schedule your appointment by calling our Aurora office at 630-862-2020.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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vision rehabilitation after concussion

5 Crucial Benefits of Vision Rehabilitation Following a Concussion

A concussion, also called a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), can have a significant impact on the brain’s ability to process visual information. This can lead to a range of vision-related problems, including difficulty with eye movement, focus, and depth perception. For those recovering from a concussion, neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation can often be a key factor in proper recovery. This specialized therapy focuses on restoring and improving visual functions that may have been affected by a brain injury.

At Family Vision Development Center, we specialize in this type of treatment. When working with our trained specialists after experiencing a concussion, you’ll see that neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation can produce the following results:

 Restored Visual Processing Abilities

After a concussion, individuals may experience a disruption in how their brain processes visual information. Common symptoms include double vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty focusing. These impairments can affect all aspects of life, including school performance, sports performance, or workplace abilities. Neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation helps retrain the brain to properly process this information. Additionally, it helps strengthen the connection between the eyes and brain in order to restore normal visual functions.

 Improved Eye Coordination and Alignment

Eye coordination can be significantly impaired following a concussion. Convergence insufficiency, where the eyes do not work together properly, is common among TBI patients. This can make tasks such as reading, using a computer, playing sports, or even walking difficult. Neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation involves exercises that improve the coordination and alignment of the eyes, which can make these activities much easier and more comfortable.

 Enhanced Cognitive Performance

Vision plays a critical role in overall brain function, and visual impairments after a concussion can affect cognitive abilities such as concentration, memory, and mental processing speed. Neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation can improve cognitive function by making it easier for the brain to process information. It is common to see an increased ability to concentrate and think more clearly following treatment.

 Improved Balance and Coordination

Vision is a key component of maintaining balance and spatial awareness. When vision is impaired following a concussion, it can lead to difficulties with balance, coordination, athletic performance and even walking. Neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation can improve these functions, making movement easier and reducing the risk of falls or accidents.

 Improved Quality of Life

Ultimately, one of the biggest benefits of neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation is the improvement in overall quality of life. By restoring visual function, reducing symptoms, and improving cognitive performance, individuals are able to return to work, school, sports and daily activities with greater ease and comfort. This therapy empowers patients to regain their independence and confidence, allowing them to live their lives to the fullest.

 Qualified Neuro-Optometric Vision Rehabilitation at Family Vision Development Center

Neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation can play an important role in recovering from a head injury. To that end, working with a highly-trained provider is essential in receiving the best care. At Family Vision Development Center, our vision rehabilitation specialists are dedicated to helping our patients regain their visual abilities and restore their quality of life after suffering from the effects of a concussion. Our specialized vision therapy programs can get people back to work and school quicker, as well as help to restore important visual functions that are essential to athletic performance. Contact our office at 630-862-2020 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.  We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions.  We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.

 

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choosing eyeglass lenses

Eyeglass Lenses: A Practical Guide to Choosing Wisely

When it comes to eyeglasses, the lenses should be considered the most important component. After all, they not only correct your vision but also impact your overall appearance and comfort. However, with so many different types of lenses available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones. Here’s a breakdown of some common lens options and factors to consider when making your selection.

Types of Lenses

  • Single Vision Lenses – These are the most basic type of lens, providing a single prescription for either nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. They’re suitable for people who primarily need vision correction for one specific distance.
  • Bifocal Lenses – Bifocals have two different areas of vision correction. The top part of the lens is for distance, while the lower part is for close-up vision. They’re often chosen by people who need to see both close objects (like books or computers) and faraway objects (like signs or traffic). Bifocals tend to be a popular choice for people over age 40, when focusing on near objects begins to get more difficult.
  • Trifocal Lenses – Trifocals have three focal points, accommodating near, intermediate, and distance vision. They’re a good choice for people who need to frequently switch between different viewing distances, such as those who work at a computer and also read or do close work.
  • Progressive Lenses – these are also known as “no-line bifocals”. As the name implies, there is no visible line on the lenses, and they provide a gradual transition between near, intermediate and distance viewing. People often find this option to be aesthetically pleasing but they do take some time to get used to.
  • Photochromic Lenses – these are also called transition lenses, as they automatically adjust their tint based on the amount of sunlight, transitioning from clear to dark. They’re ideal for people who frequently switch between indoor and outdoor environments but don’t want to switch between eyeglasses and sunglasses.

Factors to Consider

When it comes to selecting the right lenses, you should be sure to consider the following variables to make sure it’s the right fit:

  • Prescription: Of course, your prescription should be the biggest factor, as it will determine the type of lens you need to best correct your vision.
  • Lifestyle: Consider your daily activities and how you use your glasses. If you spend a lot of time driving, working on a computer, or playing sports, your lenses should reflect the demands of these activities.
  • Budget: Lenses can vary in price depending on the type and any additional features. It’s best to balance your budget with your needs for comfort, vision correction, and durability.
  • Comfort: Try on different frames and lenses to ensure they feel comfortable on your face. Factors like lens thickness, weight, and fit can impact your overall comfort.

Choosing your Lenses at Family Vision Development Center

We are proud to provide our patients with a state-of-the art optical department with the latest in high-quality frames and the most up-to-date lens technology to meet your specific needs. After we determine your exact prescription following a comprehensive vision exam, we will help you create the perfect pair of glasses that fit your face shape, lifestyle and vision correction requirements.  Contact our office at 630-862-2020 to find a convenient appointment time.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.  We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions.  We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.

 

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cataracts essential guide

Understanding Cataracts: Warning Signs, Treatment, and Tips for Easier Living

Cataracts are a common eye condition, especially as people age. They occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to a gradual loss of vision. Although they can be unsettling, they are treatable, and there are many ways to manage the condition. Here are some essential warning signs of cataracts, treatment options, and practical tips for living with them.

Warning Signs of Cataracts

Recognizing the early signs of cataracts can make a significant difference in managing the condition. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:

Blurry or Cloudy Vision: This is often the first sign. You may notice that your vision becomes increasingly blurry, hazy, or cloudy, making it harder to see clearly.

Difficulty with Night Vision: Cataracts can cause problems with seeing in low light, making activities like driving at night particularly challenging.

Sensitivity to Light: People with cataracts often experience increased sensitivity to light and glare. Bright sunlight or headlights from oncoming cars may cause discomfort.

Fading or Yellowing of Colors: Colors may appear faded or less vibrant, and there may be a yellowish tint to everything you see.

Double Vision in One Eye: They can cause double vision or ghosting in one eye, even when the other eye is closed.

Frequent Prescription Changes: If you find that your eyeglass or contact lens prescription needs frequent changes, it could be a sign of cataracts.

How to Treat Cataracts

Fortunately, cataracts are treatable, and in most cases, surgery is highly effective. Here’s a look at the primary treatment options:

Cataract Surgery: This is the most common and effective treatment. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is usually an outpatient procedure and has a high success rate, with most people experiencing significantly improved vision afterward.

Non-Surgical Management: In the early stages, cataracts might not require immediate surgery. Prescription glasses, magnifying lenses, or stronger lighting can help manage symptoms temporarily. However, as they progress, surgery is usually recommended.

Tips for Living with Cataracts

Living with cataracts can be challenging, but these tips can help you maintain your quality of life while managing the condition:

Use Brighter Lighting: Ensure that your home is well-lit, especially in areas where you read, cook, or do other activities requiring good vision. Task lighting, like reading lamps, can also be beneficial.

Wear Anti-Glare Sunglasses: Sunglasses with anti-glare coatings can reduce sensitivity to light and make it easier to see outdoors. Polarized lenses are particularly effective in cutting down glare from reflective surfaces.

Enhance Contrast: Increasing contrast can help you see better. For example, use dark placemats with light-colored dishes, or choose clocks and watches with bold, high-contrast numbers.

Magnifying Tools: Magnifying glasses or digital magnifiers can help you read small print or see details more clearly.

Regular Eye Check-ups: Regular visits to our office are crucial for monitoring the progression of cataracts and adjusting your treatment plan as needed.

Avoid Night Driving: If night vision becomes a problem, try to avoid driving after dark. If you must drive at night, be cautious and ensure your car’s headlights and windshield are clean.

Keep Your Eyes Hydrated: Dry eyes can exacerbate discomfort from cataracts. Use artificial tears or a humidifier to maintain moisture in your eyes.

Cataracts are a common part of aging, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. By recognizing the warning signs early, considering treatment options, and making simple adjustments to your lifestyle, you can continue to live a full and active life. Regular check-ups with the professional team at Family Vision Development Center are an essential step to keep your eyes healthy and your vision as clear as possible. Schedule your appointment by calling 630-862-2020.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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success in school with healthy vision

3 Simple Steps to Promote Success in School with Healthy Vision

As a parent, ensuring your child’s success in school involves more than just providing them with the right supplies and a good study environment. One crucial aspect often overlooked is their vision health. Good vision is essential for reading, writing, and participating fully in classroom activities. To promote your child’s academic success, here are three simple steps focused on maintaining healthy vision.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams for Healthy Vision

The foundation of healthy vision starts with regular vision exams. Many vision problems in children can go unnoticed because kids often don’t realize they are seeing things differently than they should. An eye exam before the school year begins can lead to success in school by ensuring that any issues are detected and corrected early.

  • Why it’s important: Undiagnosed vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can lead to difficulties in reading and writing, ultimately affecting your child’s academic performance.
  • What to expect: During an eye exam, we will check for visual acuity, focusing ability, and eye coordination. We may also look for signs of more serious conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes).
  • How often: It’s generally recommended that children have their first eye exam at 6 months, another at age 3, and then annually once they start school.

Create a Vision-Friendly Study Environment

At home, the right environment can help support your child’s overall eye health, especially during homework and study sessions, which can encourage overall success in school.

  • Proper Lighting: Ensure that the study area is well-lit to prevent eye strain. Natural light is best, but if that’s not possible, use bright, evenly distributed lighting.
  • Screen Time Management: Prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain. Encourage the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple practice helps reduce eye fatigue.
  • Reading Materials: Make sure books and reading materials are at an appropriate distance—about 14-16 inches from the eyes—and encourage regular breaks to avoid overworking the eyes.

Communicate with Teachers

Teachers play a key role in noticing potential vision problems in the classroom. Regular communication with your child’s teacher can help you stay informed about any signs of vision issues that may affect your child’s learning.

  • Check-in regularly: Ask the teacher if they’ve noticed any behaviors that could indicate vision problems, such as squinting, holding books too close, or frequent headaches.
  • Encourage seating adjustments: If your child has difficulty seeing the board, sitting closer to the front of the classroom can help. Make sure the teacher is aware of any corrections your child needs, such as wearing glasses or contacts.
  • Support vision-friendly activities: Encourage your child’s teacher to include activities that are not just screen-based. Hands-on projects and outdoor activities help give their eyes a break from close-up work and screens.

 

Promoting healthy vision is a simple yet impactful way to support your child’s success in school. By scheduling regular eye exams, creating a vision-friendly study environment, and maintaining open communication with teachers, you can help ensure that vision problems don’t stand in the way of your child’s learning. Start these practices today, and give your child the clear sight they need to thrive academically. At Family Vision Development Center, we are dedicated to helping our young patients achieve the success in school that they deserve by correcting any vision disorders that may be holding them back. To assure your child’s healthy vision, reach out to schedule your appointment by calling 630-862-2020.

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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vision rehabilitation after a stroke

Vision Rehabilitation Solutions Following a Stroke

A stroke is a frightening experience, and the impact can extend far beyond initial symptoms. Vision problems are a common side effect, affecting a large majority of stroke survivors. These vision issues can be frustrating and debilitating, but the good news is that there’s hope. Neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation can play a crucial role in helping stroke survivors regain lost visual abilities and improve their quality of life.

 

Common Vision Problems After a Stroke

Strokes occur when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. This can damage areas responsible for processing visual information, leading to a variety of vision problems. Some of the most common can include:

 

  • Visual field loss – This means you have difficulty seeing in certain areas of your vision, often on one side of both eyes.
  • Double vision (diplopia) – Seeing two images of a single object can be disorienting and make daily tasks challenging.
  • Eye movement problems – Strokes can affect the nerves or muscles that control eye movement, making it difficult to track objects or focus on near and far distances.
  • Visual neglect – This is when you become unaware of things on one side of your body or environment.
  • Visual processing problems – Difficulty recognizing objects, colors, or judging depth perception can significantly impact daily activities.

 

Neuro-Optometric Vision Rehabilitation Following a Stroke

At Family Vision Development Center, our neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation specialists have advanced training in diagnosing and treating vision problems resulting from neurological conditions, including strokes. We employ a range of therapies and interventions to help patients regain visual function and improve their quality of life. Our thorough evaluations include detailed tests to assess visual acuity, eye alignment, visual fields, and eye movements in order to identify the specific nature and extent of the vision problems.

 

Benefits of Neuro-Optometric Vision Rehabilitation

After our initial evaluation, we will develop a personalized vision therapy program to target the specific visual deficiencies that need to be restored. These highly-effective programs can provide a number of benefits, including:

 

  • Improved Visual Function: Enhancements in visual acuity, field of vision, and eye coordination.
  • Increased Independence: Better vision can enable patients to perform daily activities more independently, such as reading, driving, and navigating their environment.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Reduced frustration and increased confidence in managing everyday tasks and social interactions.
  • Prevention of Secondary Complications: Addressing vision problems early can prevent falls, accidents, and other complications related to impaired vision.

 

Recovery from stroke-related vision problems can be a gradual process. Our neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation specialists provide ongoing support, adjusting treatment plans as needed and ensuring that our patients continue to make progress. Regular follow-up appointments help in monitoring improvements and addressing any new challenges that may arise. If you or a loved one has experienced vision problems following a stroke, don’t despair. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists to discuss your specific needs and explore vision rehabilitation options. With the right approach, you can regain lost visual abilities and improve your independence and quality of life.

 

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.  We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions.  We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.

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choosing the right contact lenses

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses in 4 Easy Steps

Contacts can offer a world of freedom from bulky glasses. However, with so many options available, choosing the right contact lenses can feel overwhelming. This handy guide will break down the different types of contact lenses and offer helpful tips to ensure a perfect fit for your eyes and lifestyle.

Understanding the Types of Contact Lenses

Choosing the right contact lenses begins with knowing the difference between the various types available:

Soft Lenses: These are a very popular choice, and are known for their comfort and flexibility. Made from a soft, breathable material, they conform easily to the shape of your eye. Soft lenses come in various wear schedules.

  • Daily Disposable: The most hygienic option, you simply discard and replace them each day.
  • Disposable: Worn for a set period, typically two weeks, before being replaced.
  • Extended Wear: Approved for overnight wear, but proper guidance and cleaning routines are necessary.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These lenses are more durable and allow for increased oxygen flow to your cornea. They may take longer to adjust to than soft lenses but can be a good fit for people with astigmatism or irregular corneas.

Specialty Lenses: These contact lenses cater to specific needs:

  • Toric Lenses: These are shaped differently than standard lenses, and are used to correct astigmatism.
  • Multifocal Lenses: These have multiple prescriptions all in one lens in order to provide vision correction for near, far and intermediate distances.
  • Colored Lenses: Vision correction can also be fashionable! These lenses can enhance or change your natural eye color.

Steps for Choosing the Right Contact Lenses

Choosing the right contact lenses depends on several factors, including your vision needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Here are some steps to take to help you make the best choice.

  1. Schedule a vision exam with our office. The logical first step is to have your vision fully evaluated and speak with our knowledgeable optometrists in order to be able to make a reasonable decision. During this comprehensive evaluation, we will assess your vision needs and eye health, and recommend the most suitable type of lenses for you.
  2. Consider your lifestyle and daily activities. Some factors to take into consideration would be your activity level or participation in sports, the type of job you have, if you spend more indoors or outdoors, or if you will be wearing contacts exclusively or alternating with glasses.
  3. Evaluate comfort and personal preferences. Comfort is important when it comes to choosing the right contact lenses. If you have dry eyes or allergies, you might want lenses designed for sensitive eyes. Additionally, consider which lens materials would be most comfortable to you, or offer features like breathability or hydration.
  4. Consider maintenance and care requirements. Proper care of contact lenses is extremely important to ensure your eye health and avoid infection or injury. For this reason, you must consider how much time you’re willing to spend on lens care. For example, extended wear lenses offer convenience but require strict hygiene practices. It is essential to evaluate the level of care involved before making your choice.

Our Team Will Help You Make the Right Choice

There are a lot of considerations when it comes to choosing the right contact lenses, but we are here to help. Our experience and knowledge, along with our extensive selection of contact lenses, will ensure that you find the perfect lenses to accommodate your needs. Contact our office at 630-862-2020 to schedule your vision exam and find the perfect lenses that offer comfort, convenience, and clear vision.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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student athlete vision training

Student Athletes: Explore Vision Training Now to Dominate Fall Tryouts

Summer break is a crucial time for student athletes gearing up for school tryouts. While physical conditioning and skill training are essential, an often-overlooked aspect is the importance of vision in sports performance. Sports vision therapy can be a game-changer, enhancing visual skills that are critical for athletic success. Here’s why student athletes should consider enrolling in sports vision therapy this summer.

 

What is Sports Vision Therapy?

Sports vision therapy is a customized program designed to improve visual skills essential for athletic performance. These skills include hand-eye coordination, depth perception, peripheral awareness, reaction time, and visual tracking. At Family Vision Development Center, we will assess your student athlete’s visual abilities and tailor exercises to enhance these skills, leading to better performance on the field, court, or track.

 

Benefits of Sports Vision Therapy for Student Athletes

We all know the importance of physical conditioning for sports, but visual conditioning is just as important. Sports vision therapy is a personalized program designed to enhance the visual skills crucial for athletic success. Think of it as taking your vision from “good enough” to “game-changing.” The benefits of these programs for student athletes include:

 

  • Sharpened Visual Acuity: Keeping your eye on the ball is more than just a saying; it’s a critical skill. Sports vision therapy improves an athlete’s ability to track moving objects smoothly and accurately, which is essential in sports like baseball, football, tennis, and soccer.
  • Enhanced Peripheral Awareness: Being aware of your surroundings without having to look directly is a key skill in sports. Enhanced peripheral vision helps athletes keep track of teammates, opponents, and the ball, making them more effective in dynamic and fast-paced environments.
  • Boosted Eye-Hand Coordination: Hand-eye coordination is crucial in nearly every sport, from catching a ball to hitting a target. Sports vision therapy helps athletes improve their timing and precision, leading to better performance and fewer errors during play.
  • Elevated Depth Perception: Depth perception allows athletes to accurately judge distances, which is vital for intercepting a pass, gauging the speed of an oncoming ball, or positioning oneself correctly. Better depth perception can significantly enhance an athlete’s spatial awareness and decision-making on the field.
  • Improved Reaction Time: Quick reaction times are essential in sports, where split-second decisions can make the difference between winning and losing. Sports vision therapy trains student athletes to process visual information faster, leading to quicker and more accurate responses.

 

Why Summer Break is the Perfect Time for Sports Vision Therapy

With the demands of the school year on hold, summer offers the ideal opportunity for student athletes to invest in sports vision therapy. Here’s why:

 

  • Dedicated Training Time: Devote focused sessions to improving your visual skills without juggling school schedules.
  • Long-Term Gains: Start building a strong visual foundation before the competitive season begins.
  • Confidence Boost: Head into tryouts feeling confident in your vision and overall athletic abilities.

 

Get Started with Sports Vision Therapy Today

At Family Vision Development Center, we specialize in sports vision therapy tailored to meet the unique needs of student athletes. Our expert optometrists use state-of-the-art techniques to assess and enhance visual skills, helping student athletes reach their full potential. Don’t wait until the pressure is on! Contact us today at 630-862-2020 to schedule a consultation and give your athlete the competitive edge they need for upcoming school tryouts.

 

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.  We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions.  We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.

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summer head injury

Summer Fun and Safety: Protecting Your Vision After a Head Injury

Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and a surge in outdoor activities. But with this increased activity comes a rise in head injuries, including concussions. As a neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation provider, we see firsthand the impact these injuries can have on vision, even if the initial symptoms seem mild.

Summer Activities and Head Injury Risk

Many popular summer activities can pose a risk for head injuries and concussions. Some of them can include:

  • Biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading: These activities are a recipe for falls and bumps to the head, especially for beginners.
  • Water sports: Diving accidents, collisions with other swimmers or objects, and even roughhousing in or around the pool or slippery decks can all lead to head injuries.
  • Sports: Football, baseball, soccer, and even seemingly low-impact sports like softball all carry a risk of collisions and head-to-head contact or falls.
  • ATVing and horseback riding: These activities can result in serious accidents if proper safety precautions aren’t taken.
  • Hiking and Climbing: A misstep on a trail or a fall while rock climbing can cause a serious head injury.
  • Road Trips: Vacations are common in the summer but with all those extra cars on the road, it is especially important to drive safely and pay attention. Auto accidents are one of the leading causes of head injuries.

Safety Tips to Avoid a Head Injury This Summer

While the previously-mentioned activities can be risky, they do not have to be avoided. In fact, with the proper precautions, you can enjoy all the fun the summer season has to offer!

  • Always wear a properly fitted helmet for any activity with a risk of falls or collisions.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions while biking, skateboarding, or engaging in water sports.
  • Practice water safety by learning proper diving techniques, never diving headfirst into shallow water and watching kids closely around pools and slippery areas.
  • Follow safety rules in sports and avoid unnecessary risks.
  • Always wear a seat belt when travelling in a car in case of an accident.

Concussion Symptoms to Watch For

Concussions can manifest in various ways, and it’s essential to recognize the symptoms early. Therefore, if you have experienced any kind of collision or blow to the head, watch for these common signs:

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Difficulty focusing your eyes
  • Light or noise sensitivity
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Issues with eye movements or tracking
  • Depth perception issues
  • Loss of peripheral vision
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Confusion or forgetfulness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Feeling sluggish, groggy or slowed down
  • Mood or personality changes
  • A general feeling that something is not right
  • Difficulty with sleep

Remember that concussion symptoms may appear immediately, or they can develop over days, weeks or even months following an injury.

Vision Rehabilitation Following a Concussion

Even if your vision seems normal after a head injury, it’s important to see a neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation specialist for an exam. Concussions can disrupt the way your brain processes visual information, leading to problems with tracking, focusing, and eye teaming (coordination between your eyes). These issues can impact your daily life and ability to return to work or school.

At Family Vision Development Center our specialists have advanced training in treating post-concussive vision disorders and we can:

  • Assess your visual function to identify any post-concussion vision problems.
  • Develop a personalized treatment plan to address these issues, which may include vision therapy exercises or training to improve eye teaming and focusing skills.
  • Monitor your progress and ensure you make a full recovery.

Don’t let a summer concussion sideline your vision! By taking precautions during your favorite activities and seeking proper vision rehabilitation after a head injury, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer and a full recovery for your visual health. Contact our office at 630-862-2020 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

 

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