Squint eye, also known as strabismus, is a condition in which a child’s eyes are not aligned properly. You may notice that while one eye looks straight, the other may turn slightly inward, outward, upward, or downward. In Tamil, squint eye is commonly referred to as “Maarukkan.”
What is Squint?
A squint occurs when the two eyes do not work together in alignment. One eye may appear straight while the other deviates in a different direction. If not treated early, squint eye in children can affect vision development, depth perception, and even the child’s confidence.
Cause of squint in children
Several factors can lead to squint eye in children:
1. Weakness of the eye muscles
2. Eye injury
3. Imbalance in the nerves or muscles that control eye movement
4. Uncorrected refractive errors such as long-sight (hyperopia) or short-sight (myopia)
Types of squint in children
There are four main types of squint commonly seen in children:
1. Esotropia – One eye turns inward
2. Exotropia – One eye turns outward
3. Hypotropia – One eye turns downward
4. Hypertropia – One eye turns upward
With early diagnosis, many of these types can be corrected effectively through exercises, therapy, or medical treatment.
Exercises and Therapy for Squint Eye in Children
Vision Therapy
Vision therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for squint. It strengthens eye muscles, improves eye coordination, and helps both eyes work together.
Common Exercises
1. Prism Exercises – Help train the eyes for better alignment
2. Pencil Push-Ups – Improve focus and eye coordination
3. Brock String Exercise – Enhances teamwork between both eyes
4. Patching – Stimulates the weaker eye by covering the stronger one
5. Software-Based Activities – Improve visual perception and focus through engaging digital exercises
Medical Treatments
Depending on the severity, treatment options may include:
- Surgery for significant muscle imbalance
- Spectacles or corrective lenses for refractive errors
- Regular follow-ups with a paediatric ophthalmologist to monitor progress
Conclusion
Squint eye in children is highly treatable, especially when diagnosed early. With consistent vision therapy, exercises, and the right medical support, children can achieve better eye alignment, stronger vision, and greater confidence.
