Orthoptics

Orthoptists specialise in the assessment, diagnosis, management and monitoring of a variety of eye disorders in both adults and children. The disorders can be caused by issues with the muscles around the eyes, or issues with the nerves enabling the brain to communicate with the eyes.

Orthoptists work with a variety of patients of all ages, including those with neurological conditions such as stroke, brain tumours or multiple sclerosis. They provide a range of treatment and management options for conditions causing blurred, double vision and oscillating vision (where objects appear to move even when they are still).

Many of us take our eyesight for granted, having any of these symptoms can make even simple everyday tasks very difficult and unpleasant, and in some cases unsafe. Patients may be provided with eye patches, eye exercises, prisms or glasses which can help to relieve symptoms and drastically improve quality of life.

The majority of Orthoptists are employed by the NHS in hospitals and community services, working with a wider team alongside Optometrists and Ophthalmologists.

If you are concerned about reduced vision, double vision, see a squint in the eye or changes in lid position then you should contact your GP or local optician for a referral to our service.

How to access the Orthoptics Service

The Orthoptic service operates on a referral system via:

Internal referral from other departments in the hospital.

• Local opticians  
• General Practitioners (GP)  
• Pre-school visual screening  
• Health visitors  
• Social workers  
• Paediatricians  

More Information on Orthoptics

 NHSGGC Orthoptic departments