Which therapy may be included in the treatment of strabismus?

Occlusion therapy, often referred to as patching, is a common treatment for strabismus, which is a condition characterized by misalignment of the eyes. The primary goal of occlusion therapy is to strengthen the weaker eye by temporarily covering the stronger one, encouraging the brain to utilize the weaker eye more effectively. This method aims to improve visual acuity and coordination between the eyes, and it is particularly effective in children whose visual systems are still developing.

In the context of strabismus, occlusion therapy has been shown to enhance binocular vision by promoting the use of the affected eye, ultimately helping to align the eyes appropriately through continual practice. This non-invasive approach is often one of the first-line therapies prescribed by eye care professionals before considering more invasive options.

While other treatments like surgery, pharmaceutical therapy, or cryotherapy may be employed in specific cases or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, occlusion therapy remains a foundational approach to correcting misalignment in many patients, especially in young children.