If you’ve been experiencing unexplained headaches, eye strain, or difficulty focusing, you may have undiagnosed Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD). A quick, at-home test called the Finger Jump Test (or Image Jump Test) can give you a better idea if you might be suffering from BVD and whether it's worth seeking professional help. This test, popularized by Dr. David Antonyan, O.D., on social media channels to spread awareness, is simple to perform and can help you detect potential eye misalignment issues. Here's how to do the test and interpret the results.
How to Perform the Finger Jump Test
Stand in front of a wall: Position yourself in front of a plain wall with your head and neck straight. It's helpful to have someone stand behind you to ensure that your head and neck are aligned correctly. Any tilt in your neck could affect the accuracy of the test.
Hold your thumb at eye level: Stretch out your arm straight and hold your thumb at eye level. Focus on the nail of your thumb and pay attention to its position in space.
Alternate between eyes: Close your left eye while keeping your right eye open, then switch and close your right eye while opening your left. Alternate slowly between each eye while keeping your focus on your thumb.
Observe the movement: Watch how your thumb moves when you alternate between eyes. It’s important to note whether your thumb seems to "jump" or shift position in space when switching focus between your eyes. In a healthy binocular vision system, the thumb should appear in the same position from both eyes’ perspectives. If it doesn’t, you may have a form of BVD.
How to Interpret the Results
Right Eye Open:
If your thumb jumps up, you likely have a right hypodeviation (your right eye is positioned lower than it should be).
If your thumb jumps down, you may have a right hyperdeviation (your right eye is positioned higher than it should be).
If your thumb moves left, it suggests outward deviation.
If your thumb moves right, it suggests inward deviation.
Left Eye Open:
If your thumb jumps up, this indicates a left hypodeviation (your left eye is positioned lower).
If your thumb jumps down, you may have a left hyperdeviation (your left eye is positioned higher).
If your thumb moves right, it suggests outward deviation of your left eye.
If your thumb moves left, it suggests inward deviation.
What Do These Results Mean?
If you notice any "jumping" or shifting of your thumb when alternating eyes, it's a sign that your eyes may not be properly aligned. This could indicate vertical heterophoria or various convergence issues such as convergence insufficiency (eyes don't converge well when focusing on near objects) or convergence excess (eyes converge too much). These conditions are common forms of BVD and could also be more pronounced conditions like esotropia (eyes turn inward) or exotropia (eyes turn outward). Detecting these issues early can lead to treatment options like prism glasses or vision therapy.
Symptoms of BVD
People with BVD often experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms, especially during near tasks or reading, or even when driving. Here are some common symptoms of BVD:
For Near Tasks:
Eye strain or discomfort while reading
Double vision or ghost images
Blurry vision after short periods of focus
Difficulty concentrating on small text
Sensitivity to light
For Vertical Heterophoria and Convergence Issues:
Frequent headaches or migraines
Neck, shoulder, and back pain from compensating for eye misalignment
Dizziness or a feeling of imbalance
Eye fatigue or pain around the eyes
Anxiety or discomfort in crowded spaces
Difficulty with 3D vision or depth perception
What Should You Do If You Suspect BVD?
If you notice your thumb jumps during the Finger Jump Test or you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it's time to take action. Here are the next steps you can take to confirm whether you have BVD and explore treatment options:
Take our BVD Questionnaire to better understand your symptoms and get a preliminary assessment.
Schedule a BVD Consultation with Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc. to undergo a thorough evaluation and discuss treatment options such as prism glasses and vision therapy.
Come in for a BVD Evaluation at Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc.
If you suspect you have BVD, don’t wait! Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in your day-to-day life, reducing symptoms and improving visual comfort.
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