Orthoptic

Orthoptics is a medical specialty focused on the assessment, diagnosis, and non-surgical management of disorders of ocular motility and binocular vision. Orthoptists work to identify problems such as strabismus, amblyopia, diplopia, and convergence or divergence disorders, with particular emphasis on childhood vision development. The goal is to optimize binocular alignment and coordinated eye movements, reduce symptoms, and prevent long‑term vision impairment through nonoperative treatment.

Assessment typically includes measurements of visual acuity, cover testing, alignment evaluation at near and distance, ocular motility, and refractive testing. Orthoptists may prescribe and manage prisms, occlusion or penalization (such as atropine drops) for amblyopia, and prescribed or supervised orthoptic or vision therapy exercises to improve eye teaming and focusing. They work within ophthalmology or pediatric eye care teams, collaborating with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and therapists to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans.

Training and professional status vary by country. In many systems, orthoptists hold accredited degrees and on‑going professional certification, and license or registration permits practice under a supervising physician. The field originated in the early 20th century with developments in strabismus care and binocular vision research and remains closely tied to pediatric ophthalmology. While surgical or pharmacologic options address eye misalignment, orthoptics focuses on noninvasive approaches to restore or improve binocular function and comfort, and to detect conditions that require medical attention.