SCST Flippers

Shearer Color Sensitivity Test (SCST) System

The purpose of the SCST system is to both objectively and subjectively test for positive outcomes in three main categories of color sensitive patients. These groups consist of patients with concussion, reading disabilities and the severe headache or migraine sufferer. The percentage of patients suffering from visual discomfort after concussion is quite high; upwards of 70% in some studies. The percentage of these patients that can be helped with color filters or lenses is currently under investigation. However, some patients may get relief from their symptoms who do not respond to more traditional therapies.

Some patients simply respond better to specific colors of tinted lens than simple gray lenses, which act as neutral density filters. Gray lenses simply reduce the overall amount of light reaching the eye. It is still unclear exactly how certain wavelengths of light work to achieve this, but it is thought that it changes the timing between the m-cell and p-cell system, or more commonly referred to as the central and peripheral vision.

The SCST flippers contain the most common colors chosen by color sensitive patients. The use of color overlays is an alternative method for determining the optimum color, but studies have shown that the difference between colors chosen with overlays may vary significantly compared to the colors chosen when affecting the full field with lenses. Ideally the most exact way to choose a color is with a colorimeter, but the cost of the instrument and the expensive of custom tinting may be prohibitive for many practices.

A much less expensive and yet effective way of testing and treating the color sensitive patient is the combination of diagnostic flippers and confirmation glasses of the SCST system.

Note that the red colored tint in the kit is known at FL-41 which has been noted in studies to help many with migraines.