that these cells are found not only in the visual pathway, but throughout the nervous system. If these M-cells in the brain are
impaired in an individual, it makes him or her vulnerable to ADHD, develop- mental dyspraxia (motor skills learning disability), dysphasia (specific language impairment), autism spectrum disor- ders, schizophrenia and possibly manic depressive psychoses, although the most common resulting condition is dyslexia.
According to Dr. Stein, the com-
mon link between developmental dyslexia, dysphasia, speech impedi- ments, dyspraxia, ADHD, and autism is abnormal magnocellular neurons and therefore inattention and lack of co- ordination are common to all of these conditions. Dyslexia is clearly not just a reading problem - it’s a neurobiological condition because the M-cell develop- ment is impaired in the entire nervous system.
How Can Dyslexia be
Treated?
All of this relatively new research has led to newer treatment options, all with the same goal - improving M-cell function, which is aimed at linking the timing between the M-cell and P-cell pathways. The goal is a physiological change in neural timing that enables permanent improvements in the visual as well as motor and auditory channels. In addition, each area of developmental delay must be addressed as well and a multi-disciplinary approach must be used to best address all symptoms. The professionals who can help
those who suffer from an M-cell deficit may include a developmental optom- etrist, pediatric occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist and a psychologist, among other health care professionals. They can each help re- wire the brain so that learning becomes enjoyable again.
Dr. Michal Luchins, optometric physi- cian, runs the Family Vision & Learn- ing Center in Suffern. She specializes in Vision Therapy and Developmental Optometry. Dr. Luchins can be reached at 369-3235, VisionAndLearning@ gmail.com or visit www.optometrists. org/DrLuchins
natural awakenings
April 2010
17
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