Cooper Eye Care (Manhattan)
212-758-0772
Cooper Panariello Eye Institute (Brooklyn)
718-265-2020

Convergence Insufficiency

What is Convergence Insufficiency?

Convergence insufficiency is a vision condition marked by the inability of the eyes to work in harmony when looking at nearby objects. In most cases, convergence insufficiency causes one eye to rotate outward instead of inward in synchronization with the other eye. This creates a double or blurred vision.

This condition is most common in young children and adolescents. It frequently causes vision-related learning disabilities, as it’s closely linked to having difficulty reading. Because of this, convergence insufficiency often gets confused for a neurological learning disability instead of an eye disorder.

What are Common Symptoms of Convergence Insufficiency?

In certain instances, people with convergence insufficiency show no signs and symptoms. However, when signs and symptoms manifest, here’s what to look out for, particularly while reading or performing other school and work-related activities:

  • Double vision
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Headaches
  • Rubbing eyes
  • Strained eyes
  • Squinting
  • Trouble reading (constantly losing your place, words appear to float, read slowly)

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care. At Cooper Eye Care, the staff of skilled optometrists can effectively diagnose and treat convergence insufficiency.

How is Convergence Insufficiency Diagnosed?

If you have convergence insufficiency, it’s entirely possible your vision is otherwise perfectly normal. Therefore, it’s very important to come in for a professional diagnosis.

At Cooper Eye Care, your optometrist performs a thorough eye exam, reviews your medical history, and performs additional tests before offering a diagnosis. Make sure to mention any reading or learning issues you’re experiencing.

What Are Some Treatment Options For Convergence Insufficiency?

In many cases, the most effective form of treatment for convergence insufficiency is targeted vision therapy. This form of therapy is customized to enhance your vision and address convergence insufficiency without surgery. Through weekly meetings and supplemental at-home therapeutic techniques, the team at Cooper Eye Care can help cure your convergence insufficiency.

Treatment for convergence insufficiency may take upwards of three months but generally proves very effective. It’s possible that your symptoms can recur due to lack of sleep or extensive reading. If that happens, you may need additional vision therapy.

Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about convergence insufficiency and how vision therapy at Cooper Eye Care works.

Cooper Eye Care (Manhattan)

  • Monday
  • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday
  • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday
  • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Thursday
  • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday
  • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Saturday
  • Closed - Closed
  • Sunday
  • Closed - Closed

Cooper Panariello Eye Institute (Brooklyn)

  • Monday
  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday
  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday
  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Thursday
  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday
  • 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Saturday
  • Closed - Closed
  • Sunday
  • Closed - Closed

View All Of Our Eye Care Services

The team of doctors at Cooper Eye Care in the New York City, with offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn serving the surrounding areas of Upper East Side and Dyker Heights, are friendly, professional, and focused on care.

Request an appointment with our office today!