Ninth International Conference on Sport & Society

Abstract

Vision is integral to an athlete’s success. Performance metrics such as batting average, fielding percentage, save/shot ratio, pass completion percentage, free throw percentage, field goal percentage, and others are improved by enhancing visual functioning. Optometric sports vision optimizes vision as it relates to athletic performance. This is achieved through vision training, and the application of spectacles or goggles, tints, contact lenses and/or refractive surgery. Management and prevention of sports related ocular injuries are also covered. Vision is commonly defined as the smallest line read on an acuity chart (visual acuity). In reality, visual acuity is one of many skills that determine the efficiency of the visual system. For example, dynamic visual acuity is the ability to resolve and discriminate objects in motion (e.g. a ball). Other visual skills impacting athletic ability include contrast sensitivity, depth perception at distance, peripheral awareness, ability to fixate and track moving objects, eye-hand coordination, reaction time, near-far quickness, dominance (eye, hand and foot), and higher order visual processing. Great binocular vision is necessary to make accurate spatial judgements. Visual sequela are a leading area of impairment in sports related concussions. Optometric vision training/rehabilitation normalizes and enhances visual skills leading to improved visual performance.