How Can Binocular Visual Dysfunction (BVD) Cause Balance Issues?

When we think of balance, most people associate it with inner ear health or muscle coordination. However, your visual system plays a critical role in maintaining equilibrium, and when something’s off, it can disrupt your ability to stay steady. One of the lesser-known but impactful conditions that can affect your balance is Binocular Visual Dysfunction (BVD).
 

What Is Binocular Visual Dysfunction?

BVD is a condition where your eyes struggle to work together as a team. Even a slight misalignment between your eyes can cause the brain to work harder to fuse the two images into one. This extra effort can lead to a range of symptoms including headaches, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, anxiety in crowds, and even balance problems.
 

How BVD Affects Balance

Your body relies on three key systems to maintain balance:

• Visual System: Helps detect where you are in space and how you're moving.

• Vestibular System: Located in your inner ear, this system senses motion and gravity.

• Proprioceptive System: Uses sensors in your muscles and joints to track body position.
   

When your eyes are misaligned due to BVD, your brain receives conflicting signals about your surroundings and movement. This sensory mismatch can lead to symptoms like unsteadiness, difficulty walking in straight lines, or feeling as if you're swaying, especially in visually complex environments like grocery store aisles or crowded places.
 

The Importance of a NeuroVisual® Exam

Traditional eye exams often miss the subtle misalignments responsible for BVD. A NeuroVisual® Exam, however, is specifically designed to detect and address these small but significant eye alignment issues. During this comprehensive evaluation, your doctor assesses your visual system for signs of misalignment and determines whether you could benefit from microprism lenses.
 

These customized lenses help realign the images your eyes send to your brain, reducing the visual strain and improving your sense of balance, comfort, and overall quality of life.
 

Schedule Your NeuroVisual® Exam Today

Your vision doesn’t just help you see, it plays a vital role in how you move through the world. If you or a loved one struggles with balance issues, don’t overlook the possibility of Binocular Visual Dysfunction. Identifying and treating BVD with a NeuroVisual® Exam could be the key to restoring your confidence, comfort, and stability.
 

At Focus On Eyes, we specialize in diagnosing and treating BVD. Schedule your comprehensive NeuroVisual® Exam and take the first step toward improved balance and well-being. Visit our office in Richardson, Texas, or call (469) 620-2120 to book an appointment today.