Retrograde Neurotherapy for Amblyopia Treatment in Children

Q: Retrograde Neurotherapy for Amblyopia Treatment in Children

Hello, Mrs. <br>Tsai：<br>The mechanism of "amblyopia" involves the process of visual development, where the eyes and the visual cortex need to receive adequate light and visual stimulation to develop properly. <br>When light enters the eye, it is refracted by the cornea, lens, an

What is retrograde neurotherapy?

My 6.5-year-old daughter was diagnosed with amblyopia in her left eye (combined with hyperopia of +1.25 diopters and astigmatism of +2.25 diopters) during a vision screening at her kindergarten four months ago.
Her right eye is normal.
Currently, the ophthalmologist has recommended a combination of patching and glasses.
I also learned online about a clinic in Taipei called Guangdian Clinic, which claims to offer a new treatment called "retrograde neurotherapy" that can effectively treat amblyopia.
I visited the clinic today to inquire; one treatment course lasts three months, with three visits per week, costing nearly NT$50,000.
They informed me that wearing glasses is sufficient and that patching is not necessary (which is exactly what my daughter prefers).
While I don't mind spending money, I'm unsure if this treatment is genuinely effective.
The doctor, Huang Zhongxin, has a master's degree from Kaohsiung Medical University.
However, my online search only revealed that he seems to be a nursing instructor.
I'm wondering if this is merely a form of physical therapy and should only be considered as an adjunct treatment.
Additionally, he prescribed some vitamins and ginkgo biloba to promote blood circulation.

Cai Tai Tai, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/21

Dr. Liu Jingxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Mrs.
Tsai:
The mechanism of "amblyopia" involves the process of visual development, where the eyes and the visual cortex need to receive adequate light and visual stimulation to develop properly.
When light enters the eye, it is refracted by the cornea, lens, and other structures, forming a focused image on the retina, which then stimulates the retina to transmit visual signals to the brain's visual center.
During the developmental period (before the age of six), if the focusing of light on the retina is disrupted, it can lead to insufficient visual stimulation, resulting in a developmental barrier to vision, thus causing "amblyopia." For example, severe refractive errors (high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism) can prevent light from focusing correctly on the retina, potentially leading to amblyopia.
Other conditions such as strabismus, ptosis, cataracts, and corneal opacities, if they occur during this developmental period (before the age of six), can obstruct light from entering the eye and affect the focusing of images on the retina, which may also cause amblyopia.
Currently, the treatment for amblyopia involves several steps, and with proper cooperation, the child's vision can return to normal in a short time:
1.
Is there any "refractive error"? Severe myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, etc., should first be corrected with glasses (according to the physician's prescription).
2.
Are there any other "occlusive eye diseases" or other eye conditions? For instance, congenital cataracts, congenital ptosis, strabismus, etc., may also require surgical correction.
3.
"Occlusion therapy" involves forcing the amblyopic eye to see, typically requiring all-day occlusion therapy (the age limit for occlusion therapy for children is generally four years old for four days a week, five years old for five days a week, and six years old for six days a week, but adjustments should be made based on the child's actual condition).
4.
For those with poor responses to occlusion therapy, "amblyopia training" can be combined (finding engaging activities such as watching cartoons, playing computer games, using video game consoles, playing with challenging building blocks, or providing coloring books for daily drawing, ensuring they attract the child's attention and compel the use of the amblyopic eye, which should yield more significant training effects).
Regarding the use of retrograde neurotherapy to treat amblyopia without the need for the aforementioned treatment methods, relevant literature is still being explored; however, I recommend that the treatment steps outlined above have substantial literature and successful cases demonstrating significant effects for children with amblyopia.
Wishing you good health,
Dr.
Liu Ching-Hsi, Ophthalmology, Taipei City Hospital, Zhongxing Branch, Taiwan e-Learning Academy

Reply Date: 2005/08/21

More Info

Amblyopia, commonly known as "lazy eye," is a condition where one eye does not develop proper vision, leading to reduced visual acuity that cannot be corrected by glasses or contact lenses. The treatment for amblyopia typically involves methods that encourage the weaker eye to work harder, thereby stimulating its development. Traditional treatments include patching the stronger eye, using corrective lenses, and engaging in vision therapy exercises.
The concept of "retrograde neurotherapy" for amblyopia treatment is relatively new and not widely recognized in the mainstream medical community. It appears to be a form of therapy that may involve various techniques aimed at enhancing neural connections and visual processing in the brain. While the idea of improving visual function through neuroplasticity is promising, it is essential to approach such treatments with caution, especially when they are not backed by robust clinical evidence.

In your case, your daughter has been diagnosed with amblyopia in her left eye, accompanied by hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. The recommended treatment of using glasses and patching is a well-established approach. The glasses will help correct the refractive errors, while patching the stronger eye will force the weaker eye to engage more actively, promoting its development.

Regarding the "retrograde neurotherapy" you mentioned, it is crucial to consider the following points:
1. Efficacy and Evidence: Before committing to any new treatment, especially one that is not widely recognized, it is essential to seek evidence of its efficacy. Look for peer-reviewed studies or clinical trials that support the claims made by the practitioners of this therapy. If the therapy is not supported by substantial scientific evidence, it may not be effective.

2. Cost vs. Benefit: The cost of the therapy you mentioned is significant. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the financial investment. If traditional methods like patching and corrective lenses have a proven track record, they may be more reliable than unproven therapies.

3. Safety and Side Effects: Any new treatment should be evaluated for safety. While vitamins and supplements like ginkgo biloba may be marketed to improve circulation, their effectiveness in treating amblyopia is not established. Moreover, the safety of combining these with other treatments should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

4. Consulting with Specialists: It may be beneficial to consult with a pediatric ophthalmologist or a specialist in pediatric vision therapy. They can provide insights into the best evidence-based practices for treating amblyopia and whether any new therapies are worth considering.

5. Monitoring Progress: Whichever treatment path you choose, it is crucial to monitor your daughter's progress closely. Regular follow-ups with an eye care professional will help assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make necessary adjustments.

In summary, while the idea of retrograde neurotherapy may sound appealing, it is vital to approach it with a critical eye. Stick to established treatments that have a proven track record, and consult with qualified professionals to ensure your daughter receives the best care for her condition.

Similar Q&A

New Hope for Amblyopia: Exploring Retrograde Neurotherapy

I have congenital amblyopia (in one eye) with a prescription of -1000 diopters in my right eye. I came across "retrograde neurotherapy" online, which claims it "might" improve my condition. However, I am already 18 years old and have missed the critical period...

Dr. Zhuang Yamin reply Ophthalmology
Dear Mimi, Hello. "Retrograde Neurological Therapy," also known as "Correlative Neuromodulation Therapy (CNT)," is primarily used to address disorders related to autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Its concept of "rebooting the nervous system" i...

Can Retrograde Neurotherapy Effectively Treat Amblyopia in Children?

Dear Doctor, my son is 12 years old. When he was in kindergarten, we discovered that he had amblyopia in his left eye (0.3). We took him to Taichung Danyong Eye Clinic, where the director conducted a thorough examination and concluded that it could not be treated (this was about ...

Dr. Liu Jingxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Xiao Hu: Based on your description, your child is around 12 years old, and the best corrected visual acuity for the amblyopic eye is 0.3 (monocular amblyopia). The ideal timing for correction is somewhat late. However, it is still recommended that you first wear glasses wi...

Effective Treatments for Amblyopia in Children: Overcoming Resistance to Glasses

Hello, doctor. I discovered my child's amblyopia relatively late, and since my child is unwilling to cooperate with wearing glasses and patching, we have been intermittently treating it for about a year. He is now 6 and a half years old and has missed the so-called critical ...

Dr. Ke Meilan reply Ophthalmology
Children who are 6 and a half years old should continue wearing glasses and undergo occlusion therapy. Please do your best to assist your child with the training. Good luck! Regarding "retrograde neurotherapy," I have heard of it, so I cannot comment further. Wishing yo...

Effectiveness of Retrograde Neurotherapy for Adult Amblyopia in Taipei

I heard that the "Light Point Clinic" in Taipei uses "retrograde neurotherapy" to treat "adult amblyopia." Can anyone who has undergone treatment tell me if it is really effective? The cost is approximately 50,000 for one treatment session; I wonder ...

Dr. Wang Ziyang reply Ophthalmology
"Retrograde neurotherapy" has been practiced for many years, and its effectiveness has not yet been conclusively determined. However, it is advisable to consult with a neurologist before undergoing treatment.