In the world of vision therapy, innovative treatments can sometimes seem far-fetched, even to seasoned experts. Dr. Rick Graebe, a behavioral optometrist practicing in Versailles, Kentucky, found himself in this position when he first heard about syntonic photo therapy, or light therapy. With over 30 years of experience in treating visual issues, Dr. Graebe was no stranger to unconventional approaches, but this therapy initially struck him as too radical.
However, after hearing numerous success stories from his peers and attending a professional conference on the subject, Dr. Graebe’s perspective began to shift. Now, syntonic photo therapy is an integral part of his practice, helping patients with a variety of conditions, from migraines to vision issues caused by traumatic brain injuries.
What is Syntonic Photo Therapy?
Syntonic photo therapy involves using filtered light to alter the brain’s photoreceptors, which, in turn, can improve the visual system. Patients look into a device called a syntonizer, a two-and-a-half-foot tube with a light source at the bottom. Different filters are used to target specific visual and neurological issues.
Although it sounded like “too far out there” to Dr. Graebe initially, the therapy has a scientific basis that appealed to him. It alters the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate and pupil dilation. Dr. Graebe became convinced when he saw firsthand how this therapy could normalize a patient’s pupil size, a clear and uncontrollable sign of its effectiveness.
The Benefits of Light Therapy
Many of Dr. Graebe’s patients experience significant improvements after undergoing light therapy. The autonomic nervous system, which can be overly stimulated in some individuals, often causes stress and tunnel vision. This is especially true for children struggling academically. These children might be in a constant “fight or flight” mode, leading to dilated pupils and constricted visual fields. By balancing the autonomic nervous system, syntonic photo therapy can reduce stress, improve visual focus, and create a more relaxed, conducive environment for learning.
Dr. Graebe has also noticed benefits in his own life since incorporating light therapy into his routine. Fewer headaches, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being have made him a believer in the power of this treatment. He emphasizes that the results are not just anecdotal—changes in pupil size are a concrete, measurable outcome that demonstrate the therapy’s impact on the autonomic nervous system.
Who Can Benefit from Light Therapy?
Light therapy is beneficial for patients with a range of visual and neurological conditions. Children struggling with learning and reading issues, individuals suffering from migraines, and those recovering from traumatic brain injuries or concussions can see dramatic improvements. In particular, patients with conditions like lazy eye or binocular vision problems, where the eyes fail to work together properly, can experience better eye coordination and function through this therapy.
One of Dr. Graebe’s patients, a child from Danville, had been struggling with chronic migraines and learning difficulties. After just a few weeks of syntonic photo therapy, both the migraines and the child’s ability to focus in school showed remarkable improvement.
A New Light in Vision Therapy
Syntonic photo therapy is now an essential part of Dr. Graebe’s approach to comprehensive vision care. Though he began as a skeptic, his own experience and the undeniable results in his patients have made him a firm believer in its potential to improve lives.
If you or a loved one are experiencing visual or neurological issues, consider exploring this innovative therapy at the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute. With offices in Versailles, serving the greater Lexington area, and Somerset, they offer specialized treatments for both children and adults.
To schedule an appointment at our Versailles or Somerset locations, call us at 859-879-0089.
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This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.