Dr. Ruggiero Attends NORA Conference
Earlier this month, Dr. Ruggiero attended the 23rd annual conference of the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, International, in Cary, North Carolina. The Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, International, (NORA) is a group of committed individuals from various disciplines focused on advancing the art and science of rehabilitation for the neurologically challenged patient.
During the four-day event, Dr. Ruggiero attended various lectures on the latest research, diagnostic tools and treatment protocols for patients with neurological challenges. These challenges may stem from head injuries, strokes and other acquired brain injuries, as well as degenerative neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis.
Many of the discussions in these lectures focused on working with patients young and old who have suffered concussions. “Finally, the medical community and general public have begun to recognize the frequent occurrence of these brain injuries and the widespread implications when it comes to an individual’s ability to function,” Dr. Ruggiero said.
It is estimated that we use three quarters of our brain to receive, process or interact with visual information. In addition, 70 percent of our incoming sensory information deals with vision. When an individual suffers a brain injury – whether it is major or minor – the likelihood that their vision will be affected is quite high.
Northampton Vision Specialists has always provided diagnostic and rehabilitative care for patients with neurological impairments. In response to the growing research on concussions, the office will soon begin doing a brief baseline measurement on all of our patients at their annual examinations. This baseline measurement takes just a minute or two to complete, but based on recent research, it will be invaluable in determining whether an individual has had a concussion. It will also be extremely helpful in determining whether an athlete can return to play after a head injury.