Amplify EyeCare Manhattan Logo
Authors
BABU, RAIJU JACOB BSOptom, MSc; LILLAKAS, LINDA BA(Hons); IRVING, ELIZABETH L. OD, PhD

Dynamics of Saccadic Adaptation: Differences Between Athletes and Nonathletes

publication date
August 19, 2005.
Category
see more

Abstract/Introduction

Purpose

The aim of the study was to delineate differences in saccadic adaptation characteristics between a population of racquet sports athletes and nonathletes.

 

Methods

Eye movements were recorded at 120 Hz using a video-based eye tracker (ELMAR 2020) in a sample of 27 athletes (varsity badminton and squash players) and 14 nonathletes (<3 hours/week participation in recreational sports). Responses to negative positional error and positive positional error were studied in two sessions on separate days. Negative positional errors were induced by displacing the stimuli backwards by 3° from the initial target step (12°). Likewise, positive positional errors were induced by displacing the stimuli forward by 3°. Amplitude gains were calculated for trials before, during, and after the adaptation phase. The magnitude and the rate of change of saccadic adaptation were determined from the amplitude gains. Differences between the groups were compared using regression analysis.


Conclusion/Results

Results

No significant differences were found between the two groups in the magnitude of saccadic adaptation, both for negative (athletes −60%, nonathletes −57%) and positive (athletes +26%, and nonathletes +27%) positional error. Racquet sports athletes showed a significantly faster rate of adaptation for the positive positional error. A significant difference was not observed in the rate of adaptation for the negative positional error.

 

Conclusions

Racquet sports athletes and nonathletes adapt to positional error signals by similar amounts. However, racquet sports athletes respond to positive positional errors at a faster rate, suggesting that a strategic component or environmental influences (such as practice) may play a role in saccadic adaptation.


Testimonials


At Amplify with Dr Wernick I was seeking help for seemingly intractable, probably age-related dryness. I've seen other doctors about it, and that has been helpful, but what he explained to me about it and the careful way he answered all my questions gave me so much more of a clear understanding of what is going on (and is not) that I am more able to implement all his and others' recommendations than I was before. And he gave me additional resources for further follow-up. I am most grateful.


Cynthia Norton

Wow! This is a great Eye Care medical facility. I was thoroughly examined by Dr. Pinkhasov for over 2 hours. She made sure to check my eyes for pretty much everything and patiently explained proper care for my eyes. They definitely know how to provide great care and treat their patients right. Now I know why they have such a great reputation and been around for so long.


Steve Fay

Dr. Kavner is a gifted diagnostician and orthoptic therapist. He treated me several decades ago for a condition similar to dyslexia. I was having migraines five times per week. I worked with him for about a year and I experienced tremendous improvement (down to 3-4 per year) that has lasted.


Mary K.

Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!


Peter G.

Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!


Kinkie F.

I have always found Dr Kavner's work, expertise and wisdom of the highest caliber. As one of the fathers of OT, occupational othomology, his depth and breadth of knowledge about the eyes' health and wellbeing of the patient is exemplary. Cannot say enough good things about him.


Allen B.
1 2 3

Blog

23fd6b60-ad7d-11eb-abba-8f029dbfa5ce-shutterstock_1255404055

Discover effective treatment options for diabetic retinopathy; consult our eye care professionals to protect your vision and overall well-being

Treating diabetic retinopathy Treating diabetic retinopathy is a critical aspect of preserving vision and maintaining the overall quality of life […]

Read More
pexels-rodnae-productions-6936146

Understanding Myopia (nearsightedness): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is one of the most common vision problems people experience. In this blog post, we'll […]

Read More
Carrots for eyes

Are Carrots Good for Your Eyes?

As an optometrist at Amplify EyeCare Manhattan in New York, one of the most common questions Dr. Nathaniel Wernick often […]

Read More
see all blogs

Contact Us To Amplify Your EyeCare

Working Hours

Monday - Thursday
8:00 am - 5:15pm
friday-sunday
Closed
Location
235 East 67th Street, Suite 201, New York, New York, 10065
Website Accessibility Policy
Safety protocols page
phone-handsetarrow-uparrow-right linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram