Neuromuscular principles in the visual system and their potential role in visual

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the neuromuscular arrangement in the human extraocular muscles in order to obtain a better understanding of the mechanisms behind visual discomfort associated with reading and VDU (visual display unit) work. Histological evaluation of muscle samples from 10 subjects revealed fibrous extensions from the distal insertions of rectus muscles to the orbital wall. The number of neural elements found embedded in these collagenous extensions suggests that nociceptors are present in large numbers, capable of creating pain during movements of the eye. It is reasonable to assume that these structures and other parameters described in this study can contribute to visual discomfort associated with demanding visual tasks. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.