Optometric Syntonics Phototherapy

What is Syntonics?

  • Syntonics, also known as optometric phototherapy, is a specialized field of ocular science that involves the use of specific light frequencies through the eyes to improve visual function. This therapy has been successfully used in optometry for over 70 years to treat various visual disorders, including strabismus (eye misalignment), amblyopia (lazy eye), difficulties with focusing and convergence, learning disabilities, and the effects of stress and trauma. More recently, Syntonics has shown promising results in the treatment of brain injuries and emotional imbalances.
  • Syntonic phototherapy is regarded as one of the most advanced forms of light therapy in clinical practice. Since the 1920s, optometrists have effectively used this method to help individuals struggling with inefficient visual function. Given that approximately 80% of learning is visually driven, any dysfunction in the visual system can impact multiple areas of life, including academic performance, sports, work efficiency, and everyday tasks.
  • Light therapy is gaining recognition in the medical field, with studies exploring its benefits for treating conditions like jet lag, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), sleep disorders, and issues related to circadian rhythms. Additionally, exposure to specific colors has been found to influence mood, behavior, and various physiological functions.

How Syntonics Works

Patients undergoing Syntonic phototherapy are evaluated based on their symptoms, vision assessments, visual-motor performance, and peripheral vision sensitivity. Individuals experiencing blurry vision, eye misalignment, double vision, or academic struggles may benefit from this therapy, which uses controlled light frequencies seen as specific colors to stimulate the visual system.

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Not all retinal nerves in the eye contribute to direct vision; some are connected to non-visual brain centers, including the hypothalamus and pineal gland. These areas regulate electrical, chemical, and hormonal balances in the body, which can influence overall health, including vision. Clinical research has demonstrated that exposure to targeted light frequencies can produce significant improvements in vision and overall well-being.

Controlled studies conducted by Dr. Robert Michael Kaplan and Dr. Jacob Liberman confirmed that this short-term treatment enhances visual skills, peripheral awareness, memory, behavior, mood, and academic performance. Their research also revealed that many children with learning difficulties exhibit reduced peripheral vision, which improved significantly with Syntonic therapy. In contrast, individuals who did not receive treatment showed no such improvements.

Syntonics in Modern Medicine

In 1985, the field of psychiatry recognized the benefits of light therapy, leading to its widespread use in treating Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Today, Syntonic phototherapy is either used as a primary treatment or combined with other therapies to address conditions such as strabismus, amblyopia, focusing and convergence problems, visual fatigue, attention deficits, vision-related learning and behavioral difficulties, as well as visual impairments caused by stress, brain injuries, degenerative eye diseases, and emotional trauma.

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Common Symptoms Treated with Syntonic Phototherapy

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Visual Symptoms:

  • Blurry or fluctuating vision
  • Eye misalignment or lazy eye
  • Double vision
  • Eye strain or fatigue
  • Reduced peripheral vision
  • Sensitivity to glare or bright lights
  • Night vision difficulties
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Visually Related Challenges:

  • Frequent headaches
  • Difficulty concentrating or maintaining attention
  • Reading difficulties
  • Declining academic performance
  • Poor coordination and balance
  • Issues with driving or depth perception
  • Reduced efficiency in work or near-focus tasks
Continual Progression

History of Stress or Trauma:

  • Physical trauma
  • Mental or emotional stress
  • Chronic or severe illnesses
  • Recurring allergies (environmental or chronic)

Our Approach at Nandadeep Eye Hospital

At Nandadeep Eye Hospital, we integrate Syntonic phototherapy with advanced vision therapy techniques to provide a comprehensive treatment plan. This approach ensures the best possible outcomes for our patients, enhancing both visual function and overall well-being.