Vertiefungskurs: OM, Winterthur 27

The course combines specialist neuroanatomical knowledge with intensive hands-on training in practical methods.

Day 1: Neuroanatomy, Systematic Assessment & Optometric Screening

Morning | Fundamentals & Pathophysiology:

• Central control of oculomotor function: from the brainstem (functional connections between the vestibular nuclei and ocular motor nuclei) to the cortical eye fields.
• Examining the subsystems: saccades, smooth pursuit, optokinetic nystagmus (OKN), and vergence movements.
• Focus: oculomotor disorders in central pathologies and following traumatic brain injury.
• Video analysis: reliably identifying visual “red flags.”

Afternoon | Optometric Screening for Therapists:

• Systematic vestibulo-ocular assessment: structured examination to differentiate between peripheral vestibular, central, and purely oculomotor deficits.
• Binocular function & phorias: performing the cover test to identify latent ocular misalignments.
• Vergence assessment: measuring the near point of convergence (NPC).
• Accommodation check: assessing the ability to focus at near distances using the push-up/push-away method.
• Visual tolerance: fine motor assessment during smooth pursuit/saccades and identification of factors that may negatively affect treatment outcomes.
• Interdisciplinary decision-making: when is therapeutic intervention appropriate, and when is referral to an ophthalmologist or optometrist necessary?

Day 2: Specific Training, Clinical Transfer & Case Studies

Morning | The Visual Rehabilitation Toolbox:

• Vergence training: use of pen push-ups and introduction to the Brock String to improve binocular coordination.
• Saccade & smooth pursuit drills: use of Hart Charts and specific fixation targets to improve precision and binocular function.
• Accommodation training: near-far shifts (“jumps”) to improve accommodative flexibility.
• Anti-saccade training: promoting central inhibition and executive control.
• Integration: combining oculomotor stimuli with vestibular tasks (e.g. VOR suppression).

Afternoon | Case-Based Work, Dosage & Supervision:

• Clinical transfer: seamless integration of eye and coordination training into existing vestibular treatment concepts.
• Load management: appropriate dosage, management of training intensity, and avoidance of therapeutic overload (when is “less more”?).
• Interactive case studies & practical workshops: analysis of complex patient profiles (e.g. post-concussion syndrome or cerebellar disorders), from initial assessment to an individualized training plan.
• Practical exercises in small groups to consolidate your examination techniques and exercise instruction skills.