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Functional Neurologic disorder (FND)

Background

Overview and symptoms

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a medical condition in which there is a problem with the functioning of the nervous system and how the brain and body sends and/or receives signals, rather than a structural disease process such as multiple sclerosis or stroke. FND can encompass a wide variety of neurological symptoms, such as limb weakness or seizures.

FND is a condition at the interface between the specialties of neurology and psychiatry. Conventional tests such as MRI brain scans and EEGs are usually normal in patients with FND. This had led, historically, to the condition being relatively neglected by both clinicians and researchers. However, it is now established that FND is a common cause of disability and distress, which may overlap with other problems such as chronic pain and fatigue.


 

FND symptoms may include:

  • Seizure-like episodes

  • Movement problems

  • Problems with cognitive function

  • Dizziness

  • Speech difficulties, such as sudden onset of stuttering or trouble speaking

  • Problems with vision or hearing

  • Pain (including chronic migraine)

  • Extreme slowness and fatigue

  • Numbness or inability to sense touch

How physiotherapy can help

Exercise for

FND

Physical therapy can help prevent secondary complications from conversion disorder. In certain cases physical therapy sessions have been shown to expedite the process of remission.

Examples of treatment: for a patient presenting with paralysis or weakness, consider working;

on pre-gait activities such as sit-to-stands, weight-shifting in multiple planes, mini-squats, lunge matrices, balance activities, etc.

Gait activities should include stair management, dual-task activities, adjustment of gait mechanics, etc.

What we offer and how we can help

Neuro Spark Rehab services for FND

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