What is NORT?
Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Therapy (NORT) is a non-invasive and drug-free specialized therapy that uses exercises to improve visual function and quality of life for individuals with a variety of neuro-visual conditions, such as Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS). NORT is now utilized and recognized as an effective treatment for VSS. The NORT protocol for VSS involves in-office examinations using optometric techniques to evaluate the patient’s visual system and identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to their symptoms. During the evaluation, various lenses, prisms, and filters may be used to determine if they are helpful for use during therapy. Exercises are customized to each patient based on their specific symptoms and medical history.
What does NORT involve?
The NORT protocol for Visual Snow Syndrome consists of 12 weeks of in-person, one-on-one sessions, each lasting 1 hour. Each session includes 3-5 exercises and at-home assignments. The home assignments are performed 5 days a week for 12 weeks and are monitored through follow-up visits. Exercises will be chosen by your physician based on your symptoms and medical history.
For more information on the types of exercises that may be performed, please view the published Frontiers article written by Dr. Tsang, Dr. Shidlofsky, and Vanessa Mora. This article provides detailed information on the exercises used in NORT and how they may benefit individuals with Visual Snow Syndrome.
Who provides NORT?
NORT is delivered by a neuro-optometrist or a trained vision therapist under the direction of a neuro-optometrist. Activities are customized for each patient to suit their individual needs and follow the activities within the listed protocol.
How Can I Find a Doctor Who Provides NORT?
Dr. Tsang and Dr. Shidlofsky are holding Masterclasses around the world to teach physicians the NORT protocol to treat Visual Snow Syndrome. By educating and training more physicians, Dr. Tsang and Dr. Shidlofsky hope to improve access to this effective treatment option for individuals with VSS globally. Their masterclasses are affiliated with the Council on Optometric Practitioner Education (COPE), a nationally recognized accreditation program for optometric continuing education (CE) courses.
VSS Masterclasses
First-ever Visual Snow Syndrome treatment with medical experts at the Sydney, Australia Masterclass
1:59
Treating Visual Snow Syndrome: Insight with Dr. Melissa Allen at the Sydney, Australia Masterclass
1:30
Treating Visual Snow Syndrome: Insight with Dr. Shidlofsky at the Sydney, Australia Masterclass
1:49
Treating Visual Snow Syndrome: Insight with Dr. Steve Leslie at the Sydney, Australia Masterclass
1:47
Treating Visual Snow Syndrome: Insight with Dr. Jennifer Mcdermond at the Miami, Florida Masterclass
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What Are the Benefits of NORT?
Additional Resources
If you are unable to find a Certified VSI NORT physician in your area, you can check the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association (NORA) website for other physicians that provide NORT.
However, it is important to note that these physicians may not be familiar with VSS. It is essential to explain your symptoms thoroughly and ask if the physician has experience treating VSS before starting any treatment.
For additional related clinical research, please view the following studies/literature:
The Efficacy of Neuro-Optometric Visual Rehabilitation Therapy in Patients with Visual Snow Syndrome
Neuro-Optometric Treatment for Visual Snow Syndrome: Recent Advances
Pediatric Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS): A Case Series
Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS): An Evolving Neuro-Optometric Clinical Perspective
New Treatment for Visual Snow Syndrome Being Presented at ACBO Conference
