Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Functional Neurological Disorder – What is it?

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is the name given for symptoms in the body which appear to be caused by problems in the nervous system, but which are not caused by a physical neurological disease or disorder.

Often referred to as ‘medically unexplained, psychosomatic or somatisation.’

Dissociative neurological symptoms disorder

Functional neurological symptom disorder

Functional movement disorder

Non-epileptic seizures

Hysteria

Conversion disorder

Shell shock

Dissociative seizures/motor disorder

Psychogenic seizures/movement disorder

The Scale of the Issue

FND is the 2nd most common reason to see a neurologist (after headache).

For every 100,000 people, 12 new cases of FND are expected to be diagnosed annually.

FND disproportionately affects women, with estimates suggesting a female-to-male ratio of around 3:1.

FND IS NOT LIMITED TO THE MEDICO-LEGAL SECTOR

FND Rehabilitation

The key challenge is helping the client understand and accept the diagnosis.

It is vital to reassure patients that:

Their symptoms are real and not imagined.

Symptoms can be reversed and recovery is possible.

The path to improvement lies in active, structured, and well-informed long-term management.

The Initial Assessment

Identify the history, medical consultations, investigations to date, diagnoses.

Explore the claimant’s perception of their condition and their needs.

Identify any predisposing factors, co-morbidities and perpetuating factors.

Assess the degree of disability and level of function of the claimant.

Assess other consequences of condition, including: social isolation, litigation, employment, etc.

Understand the individual circumstances and agree the plan – shared decision.

Programmes must be feasible, relevant and sustainable.

Rehabilitation in FND

FND is poorly understood and frightening for those with a diagnosis.

FND is very difficult to manage due to its complex nature and the variety of symptoms involved.

One of the most important factors in predicting a positive outcome is the patient’s acceptance of the diagnosis.

Consistent messaging and ongoing reinforcement from healthcare providers play a crucial role in supporting this acceptance and improving long-term outcomes.

Welcome to Rehab Direct

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Functional Neurological Disorder – What is it?

The Scale of the Issue

FND Rehabilitation

The Initial Assessment

Rehabilitation in FND

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