Orthoptics

Orthoptics is a profession allied to medicine whose primary emphasis is the diagnosis and non-surgical management of strabismus (wandering eye), amblyopia (lazy eye) and eye movement disorders. The word orthoptics comes from the Greek words ὀρθός orthos, "straight" and ὀπτικός optikοs, "relating to sight" and much of the practice of orthoptists concerns refraction and muscular eye control. Orthoptists are trained professionals who specialize in orthoptic treatment. With specific training, in some countries orthoptists may be involved in monitoring of some forms of eye disease, such as glaucoma, cataract screening and diabetic retinopathy

Orthoptics has a long history in supporting ophthalmic care. French ophthalmologist Louis Emile Javal, began using ocular exercises to treat strabismus (wandering eye) and described the practice of orthoptics in his writings in the late 19th century. Mary Maddox pioneered the orthoptic profession and was the first documented orthoptist. She was trained by her father, Ernest E. Maddox, in response to increasing patient demand and time needed to examine and treat patients. Dr Ernest Maddox was a reputed ophthalmologist as well as the inventor of various instruments for investigating binocular vision. Mary Maddox started her own practice in London in the early 1920s and her first hospital clinic opened at the Royal Westminster Hospital in 1928. The first Australian hospital clinic with orthoptists was established at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne in 1931.

Orthoptics may be studied as either a bachelor and masters programs in many countries, the option of Post-graduate programs such and professional doctorates and PhDs are also available. Currently, approximately 17 orthoptic programs are offered around the world. While orthoptic programs differ, students learn to assess, diagnose and manage ocular disorders.

Orthoptic programs are offered by the University of Technology Sydney and LaTrobe University, Melbourne. Students could either undertake a 4-year undergraduate/postgraduate combined degree or a 2-year postgraduate master's degree. Successful completion of either degree will enable graduates to register with the Australian Orthoptic Board.

A 3-year Bachelor orthoptic degree programme is offered by the University of Sheffield and the University of Liverpool and a 4-year degree by Glasgow Caledonia University. Successful completion of the degree will enable graduates to register with the Health and Care Professions Council in the UK.

A distance learning Masters (MMedSci) degree in Vision and Strabismus is offered by the University of Sheffield.

The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has a 24-month training program in orthoptics.

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Wikipedia