Efeito do treinamento oculomotor no controle postural de indivíduos com insuficiência de convergência visual: ensaio clínico, randomizado, cego

Abstract

Introduction: Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a binocular vision disorder marked by difficulty in aligning the eyes during near-vision tasks, leading to symptoms such as diplopia, visual fatigue, and impairment in sustained visual activities. Beyond visual symptoms, recent studies suggest that CI may affect postural and functional control, increasing instability and fall risk. These findings underscore the need for research linking vergence disorders with motor parameters to develop more integrated rehabilitation approaches. Objective: To evaluate the effects of oculomotor therapy on postural control in individuals with CI and assess its impact on physical and functional performance. Methods: This was a blinded, randomized clinical trial with two phases: assessment and intervention. A total of 24 physically active participants aged 18 to 59 years with a confirmed CI diagnosis were included. Assessments included the Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey (CISS), the Near Point of Convergence (NPC) test, stabilometry, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Participants were randomized into an Experimental Group (EG), which received five weekly sessions of oculomotor therapy, and a Control Group (CG), which received no intervention. Data were analyzed with a significance level set at 5%. Results: The EG showed a significant reduction in visual symptoms (CISS), improved ocular convergence (NPC), and shorter TUG times, indicating enhanced functional mobility. No significant changes were observed in stabilometric parameters. The CG showed no meaningful improvements. Conclusion: Oculomotor therapy was effective in reducing symptoms and improving motor performance in individuals with CI. Although it did not significantly affect static postural control, the intervention positively influenced functional outcomes, supporting its integration into rehabilitation protocols.