Colors in vision therapy: Can colors heal?

The world of vision therapy is increasingly talking about the role of colors in the healing process. Colors - something that surrounds us every day - can have a real impact on visual function and overall well-being. But can they heal?

 Color therapy - or what?

Color therapy (chromotherapy) is a non-invasive adjunctive treatment method that is based on the idea that different colors affect the human body on a physical and psychological level. Although it sounds like an element of alternative medicine, it is also increasingly being used in the context of vision therapy - especially for children, people with sensory processing disorders, and in the treatment of certain types of strabismus, visual impairment or photophobia.

How do colors affect vision?

Research and observations by specialists indicate that properly selected colors can:

• Improve concentration and visual focus (e.g., blue calms, yellow stimulates attention),
• Reduce symptoms of eye fatigue and light sensitivity,
• Facilitate visual rehabilitation in orthoptic and pleoptic therapy,
• Support sensory integration in children with neurological difficulties.

Example? In children with reading difficulties, colored filters or text overlays (e.g., blue, green) are used to reduce the so-called “letter ripple effect.” In some individuals, this leads to a significant improvement in reading comfort.

Effects on the brain and emotions

Colors affect not only the eye, but also the nervous system. That's why therapy rooms are often designed with muted, harmonious colors. Warm colors can stimulate activity, cold colors can relax. In vision therapy, this is of great importance - after all, treatment is not only about technique, but also about the patient's emotions and motivation.

 Color therapy in clinical practice

More and more therapists see the potential in integrating color therapy with classical vision therapies:

• In vision therapy for children (e.g., with Asperger's syndrome, ADHD, learning difficulties),
• In adults with brain injuries (e.g., after accidents or strokes),
• In the treatment of sensory integration disorders that have a visual component.

Colors do not replace classical therapy, but they can enhance its effects - provided they are used consciously and individually selected.

 Science or placebo?

Although some aspects of color therapy still arouse skepticism in the scientific community, more and more studies are showing positive effects of using colors in therapy. The key is a holistic approach - treating vision not just as an organ, but as part of a larger nervous, emotional and cognitive system.

 In conclusion:

Colors are more than just aesthetics - they are a tool that can support therapy, improve quality of life and visual comfort. We are only at the beginning of this color road, but all indications are that it is worth pursuing.