Vision therapy is often misunderstood, but for those who experience its transformative effects, it can be life-changing. Dr. Rick Graebe, a highly experienced specialist in pediatric eye care and neuro-optometry, once shared this skepticism. However, after witnessing incredible results with his own patients, Dr. Graebe became a firm advocate of this groundbreaking approach to vision health.
From Skepticism to Success
In his early years of optometry, Dr. Graebe, like many others in his field, was skeptical of vision therapy. During his time at Indiana University, vision therapy was often dismissed by his peers as ineffective. The idea that therapy could rewire the way the brain and eyes function together seemed far-fetched. But over time, Dr. Graebe realized that something was missing in his practice.
Patients who were fitted with the “right” corrective lenses still struggled with basic visual tasks, like reading or staying focused in school. Despite having 20/20 vision, many of these patients were unable to perform at their best. This puzzle led Dr. Graebe on a journey of continuing education to find out why these individuals were not reaching their full potential.
In 1990, everything changed when Dr. Graebe attended a presentation by Ken Gibson in Louisville, Kentucky. Gibson introduced the idea that vision is more than just clear eyesight—it involves the brain’s ability to process what the eyes see. This revelation shifted Dr. Graebe’s perspective from focusing solely on the mechanics of the eye to understanding the crucial role the brain plays in vision.
Vision Therapy in Action
After his training with Dr. Gibson in Wisconsin, Dr. Graebe remained skeptical but decided to give vision therapy a try with three of his pediatric patients. To his surprise, the results were nothing short of miraculous. All three children, who had previously struggled with reading and learning, saw dramatic improvements. One child, who had been held back a year in school, quickly began earning straight A’s after undergoing vision therapy.
These initial successes led Dr. Graebe to expand his use of vision therapy in his practice. As he continued treating more patients, the results were consistently remarkable. Children who had been misdiagnosed with learning disabilities or behavioral problems found new hope through vision therapy, improving not just in school but in their overall quality of life.
Who Can Benefit from Vision Therapy?
Dr. Graebe now firmly believes that vision therapy can benefit anyone who isn’t reaching their potential. Whether a child is struggling with reading in school, an athlete is working to improve their hand-eye coordination, or a patient is recovering from a traumatic brain injury, vision therapy can make a significant difference. It’s not just about seeing more clearly—it’s about improving how the brain processes and reacts to visual information.
At Neuro-Visual Performance Institute, located in Versailles and Somerset, Kentucky, patients from all over Central and Southern Kentucky come to experience the benefits of vision therapy. From the greater Lexington area to smaller surrounding communities like Frankfort, Berea, and Danville, individuals are discovering that vision therapy can unlock potential they never knew existed.
Transform Your Vision, Transform Your Life
If you or someone you love is struggling with undiagnosed vision issues, learning difficulties, or coordination problems, vision therapy may be the answer. Dr. Graebe and his dedicated team at the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute are ready to help you reach your full potential.
To schedule an appointment at our Versailles or Somerset locations, call us at 859-879-0089 today.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.