Headaches after reading, words that seem to move on the page, dizziness in crowded places, or trouble with depth perception can all be signs of binocular vision dysfunction (BVD). If you’re looking for a binocular vision dysfunction specialist in Novi, our experts at Focus Eyecare can help you uncover the cause of your symptoms and find relief.  

During a comprehensive eye exam that goes beyond standard vision checks, our experienced eye doctor, Dr. Robyn L. Dragoo, can identify what’s throwing your eyes out of sync and create personalized solutions. With the right treatment, reading feels steadier, screens are easier to manage, and everyday life becomes more comfortable.  

Keep reading to learn more about binocular vision dysfunction, symptoms, causes, and how to treat it effectively.  

What is binocular vision dysfunction? 

Binocular vision is your brain’s ability to blend the images from both eyes into one clear, comfortable picture. This misalignment can result in severe physical and cognitive symptoms, including chronic headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. The condition often goes undiagnosed, as patients and healthcare providers may not recognize the underlying visual cause of these symptoms. 

Binocular vision dysfunction can occur even if your eyesight appears normal on a standard eye chart. That’s why specialized testing beyond basic vision checks is often required to uncover the underlying binocular issues. 

BVD symptoms 

Symptoms of BVD can vary from mild to severe and may be mistaken for other issues, such as migraines or anxiety. Common signs include: 

• Headaches, eye strain, or fatigue, especially after reading or computer work 
• Blurry or double vision (intermittent or persistent) 
• Words that move, blur, or “swim” on the page; losing your place or skipping lines 
• Dizziness, motion sensitivity, or nausea in busy environments or while riding in cars 
• Light sensitivity and difficulty with screens 
• Poor depth perception; clumsiness or trouble with ball sports 
• Neck/shoulder discomfort or head tilt to reduce strain 
• Difficulty concentrating, reduced reading fluency, and avoidance of near work 
• Increased symptoms after a concussion or other brain injury 

What causes binocular vision dysfunction? 

BVD can be caused by a variety of factors that affect eye coordination, including: 

• Muscle imbalance: The muscles controlling eye movement don’t work in perfect harmony, causing misalignment. 
• Neurological issues: Conditions that affect the brain or nervous system, including concussions or strokes, can disrupt eye coordination. 
• Developmental delays: Children with retained reflexes or delayed motor skills may experience binocular vision problems. 
• Eye strain: Extended screen time and digital device use can worsen underlying coordination issues. 
• Prescription problems: Poorly fitted glasses or contact lenses can sometimes contribute to symptoms. 

Regular exams, including pediatric eye exams, help catch these issues early before they interfere with learning or daily activities. 

Binocular vision dysfunction treatment 

One of the most effective ways to treat BVD is through vision therapy, a personalized program designed to train your eyes and brain to work together. This is different from just wearing glasses or contact lenses; it involves structured exercises that improve eye coordination, tracking, and focusing skills. Some cases may also benefit from prism lenses, which help align the eyes and reduce symptoms. 

Why choose our binocular vision specialist near you 

Our vision therapy program is fully customized to match your unique goals and needs. We use a structured three-phase approach to strengthen visual function and apply those skills to real-life situations. 

Phase 1: Build core visual abilities 

We focus on eye tracking, focusing, and coordination. This phase may also address retained reflexes or motor skill delays. 

Phase 2: Increase difficulty and automaticity 

Skills are taken to the next level. We introduce visual perception training, so the brain becomes faster at recognizing and interpreting visual information. 

Phase 3: Integrate vision with thinking and learning 

We develop visual memory and visualization, then apply skills to academics, work, sports, and daily tasks. 

Every program is designed with careful attention to your progress, so therapy stays relevant and effective. 

Our vision therapy program is led by Dr. Robyn Dragoo, a skilled Novi optometrist and binocular vision specialist. She focuses on uncovering and treating vision conditions that often go unnoticed in routine exams, from helping children who struggle in school due to undiagnosed visual issues to supporting patients recovering from brain injuries. Dr. Dragoo has advanced training through the College of Optometrists in Vision Development and provides comprehensive eye care for all ages. 

Schedule your visit today 

If you suspect you or your child may have BVD, don’t wait. A detailed evaluation with an experienced eye doctor can significantly improve your comfort, learning, and quality of life. Schedule an appointment today and find the best solution for your needs.