Effect of Dynamic Stereoscopic Vision on Balance with Induced Anisometropia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between dynamic stereoscopic vision and balance, and to compare our results to previous studies that sought to determine the correlation between changes in visual information and balance. Thirty-three healthy adults participated in the measurement of balance by inducing anisometropia with +0.0D, +2.0D, and +5.0D refractive lenses placed in specially made glasses that removed peripheral vision. COP data was collected via force plate and was evaluated by converting it to COP velocity. An α <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Our results show that, provided it is above a minimum threshold level, the greater the change in dynamic stereoscopic vision, the poorer the balance. And it was found that changes below a minimum threshold level did not affect the balance. These results provide a potential explanation for the complementary compensatory action of sensory information, which could not be explained previously based on the change of balance due to changes in visual information across both eyes. Given these data, it seems clear that vision correction is essential for those affected by dynamic stereoscopic vision formation disorders above a certain level in order to improve balance. On the other hand, dynamic stereoscopic vision formation disorders below a certain level can likely be improved using simple somatosensory treatments. This study will help physical therapists better consider dynamic stereoscopic vision when evaluating and conducting therapies designed to increase balance.