According to researchers from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, convergence insufficiency may be treated more effectively by using video games. They found visual exercise games in virtual reality (VR) designed to increase convergence while maintaining single, clear, binocular vision were an effective treatment option.

The study analyzed 18 patients with convergence insufficiency who were assigned either to anaglyphs or a VR game called “Snakes.” The prescribed training regimen was 20 minutes, three times a week for six weeks. After comparing vision before and after the treatment period, the researchers noted a significant effect for near point of convergence, near positive fusional reserves break and recovery but not of the intervention type. Nevertheless, total time played was significantly longer for the virtual reality Snakes game than the anaglyph intervention, with a mean compliance of 82% and 51%, respectively.

The researchers believe the increased compliance of the game modality will be useful in convergence insufficiency treatment, as adult patients often cease treatment when symptoms start to improve and before treatment is complete.