Functional Neurological Disorder
Real, disabling neurological symptoms—weakness, abnormal movements, or sensory loss
Symptoms
- Muscle weakness
- Abnormal movements
- Tremors
- Sensory loss
- Numbness or tingling
- Difficulty walking
- Balance problems
- Speech difficulties
- Seizure-like episodes
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
- Memory and concentration issues
- Limb paralysis
Real, disabling neurological symptoms—weakness, abnormal movements, or sensory loss—that arise from a problem in how the brain functions and processes signals, rather than structural disease, meaning standard scans appear normal. It is not "faking" or "all in the mind"; it is a genuine disorder of the nervous system's functioning, often triggered or worsened by stress. Treatment involves clear diagnosis and explanation (which itself is therapeutic), specialized physiotherapy retraining movement patterns, and psychological therapy (CBT) addressing contributing factors. Early diagnosis and a non-judgmental multidisciplinary approach significantly improve outcomes. Surgery has no role.
