Brain injuries come in different sizes and shapes, so to speak. Sometimes minor, nearly never simple, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and acquired brain injuries (ABI) almost always impact on multiple aspects of brain function. We can, with some degree of accuracy, predict (or rather ‘expect’) certain signs of TBI, say, given the nature of how these typically arise – the head bangs against or is hit by something. Among others, the brainstem and vestibular system (depicted in image) are particularly vulnerable to torsion and compression.
Closed head injuries will often show signs that combined will lead to functional deficits felt in daily life, like dizziness, blur, diminished coordination, double vision, trouble reading and using computers, headache, and more. Vision Mechanics (developmental and behavioural vision doctors and therapists) will break down the individual elements for assessment and treatment. Typically, these are what we’re looking for:
- Visual Field Loss (or ‘cut’)
- Fine Eye Movement Disorders
- Ocular Muscles Disorders
- Accommodative (Focus) Disorders
- Perceptual Disorders
- Vestibular (Balance) Disorders
Locating and addressing specific functional deficits is the goal of the Vision Mechanic: If all the parts are working well and in sync, most if not all symptoms will abate, improve, disappear. Science also tells us that addressing these concerns early is much more effective than simply having people stay in dark rooms.
Once you know more about what makes a brain injury and what visual elements can be affected, the effects become easier to understand.
You can learn a lot more about eyes and vision and brain injuries in our courses here at VisionMechanic.net, so feel free to have a look. You’ll be especially interested in spending time with us if you’re a parent, a teacher, therapist or doctor working with reading, developmental, and learning disorders, and of course brain injuries. Loads of good practical information and advice.
We’d appreciate it if you Liked and shared this video series if you find it helpful. We’re planning a lot of new content so subscribe to ensure you see all the new videos as they come out. Go to VisionMechanic.net to let us know if there’s a topic you’d like us to cover in an upcoming episode of the VisionMechanic.
All science, with just a little attitude and no filler. That’s the Vision Mechanic. See you next time.
