Sonal Rathod
Bachelor of Science with Honours in Orthoptics
- Orthoptists
Location:
Brief Introduction
Sonal Rathod is an Orthoptist with the Strabismus and Paediatric Ophthalmology team at Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, which she joined in 2020. She previously spent over five years practising orthoptics at Ashford and St Peter's Hospital in the United Kingdom, where she was Lead Clinical Tutor.
Areas of Expertise
- Investigation and management of complex ocular movement disorders
- Amblyopia and strabismus in children
- Working with children of all ages and learning abilities
- Primary vision screening
- Paediatric and adult ocular motility
- Botulinum toxin clinics
- Assisting in adjustable strabismus surgery and supporting pre-operative assessment
Qualifications
- Graduated from the University of Liverpool, 2013
- Lead Clinical Tutor, Ashford and St Peter's Hospital, teaching undergraduate orthoptic students and pre-registration optometrists
Research & Academic Work
- Contributed to audits and research to improve patient care
Services Provided by Sonal Rathod
Paediatric Ophthalmology
Aviation Ophthalmology
Adult & Paediatric Squint
About Squint (Strabismus) in Children and Adults
A squint, medically known as strabismus, is a condition where the eyes are misaligned and do not look in the same direction. One eye may turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards while the other remains focused. This misalignment affects both children and adults, though its causes and implications may differ depending on age.
In children, a squint often develops due to an imbalance in the muscles controlling the eyes, leading to poor coordination between them. If left untreated, it can cause amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” where the brain begins to favour one eye, potentially impairing vision in the affected eye. Early detection, including glasses, eye patches, or surgery, is crucial for successful treatment.
In adults, strabismus can arise from trauma, neurological conditions, or illnesses like stroke or diabetes. It may cause double vision, headaches, or eye strain, affecting daily activities and quality of life. Treatment options include corrective lenses, vision therapy, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause.
Effective management of squint is vital for improving visual function and overall eye health in children and adults.
At Moorfields Eye Hospitals UAE, our highly qualified adult and paediatric squint surgeons have extensive experience diagnosing and treating all forms of squint.