The Treatment of Convergence Insufficiency a Historical Overview of the Literature

Convergence Insufficiency (CI) is a common non-strabismic binocular vision disorder in children and adults. Optometrists and ophthalmologists diagnose this condition but approach the treatment options differently. Surveys have been conducted and the general consensus even among the two professions, varies. Behavioral optometrists evaluate the patient and prescribe lenses, prisms and vision therapy as their treatment options for these patients. Other optometrists may also prescribe treatments such as pencil push-ups, home-based vision therapy, lenses or prisms. Ophthalmologists generally prescribe differently and chose from a list including pencil pushups, orthoptics, prism glasses or ocular surgery. The Convergence Insufficiency Treatment Trial investigators, consisting of both optometrists and ophthalmologists, have conducted a series of clinical treatment trials, to determine the optimal treatment for patients with convergence insufficiency. This article reviews some of the historical studies conducted, and describe the most recent research on convergence insufficiency. The impact of this new research and its effects on how these patients are therapeutically managed will be discussed.