What You Need to Know About Living with Functional Neurological Disorder
Living with Functional Neurological Disorder, also known as Conversion Disorder, can be a challenging and isolating experience for many. In essence, the brain is trying to protect itself from an outside force that is threatening it by converting these symptoms into physical ones. Neurological physiotherapy is an effective treatment that can help you live more comfortably with this condition. In the blog post we will cover everything you need to know about living with Functional Neurological Disorder or those caring for someone with this condition.
What is Functional Neurological Disorder
Functional Neurological Disorder is a condition where the brain converts psychological stress into physical symptoms. The most common symptoms include:
– paralysis
– muscle weakness
– loss of sensation
– altered pain sensation
– seizures
– uncontrolled movements
Symptoms often come on abruptly and can be very debilitating. These symptoms often closely mimic that of other neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis. How the conversion symptoms appear varies from person to person. Neurological physiotherapy can help to reduce the impact of these symptoms and improve quality of life.
What causes Functional Neurological Disorder?
There is no one single cause of Functional Neurological Disorder. It is complex disorder believed to be caused by a combination of psychological and physical factors.
Psychological factors may include:
– stress
– anxiety
– trauma
– depression
Physical factors may include:
– injury to the nervous system
– inflammation of the nervous system
– infection of the nervous system
How is Functional Neurological Disorder diagnosed?
A diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder is made by exclusion, which means that other conditions with similar symptoms must be ruled out first. Once other conditions have been ruled out, a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder can be made based on the presence of certain psychological and physical factors.
What are the treatment options for Functional Neurological Disorder?
There is no one single treatment for Functional Neurological Disorder. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, physiotherapy, and psychological counselling.
Physiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of Functional Neurological Disorder. Physiotherapy can help to improve symptoms such as muscle weakness and paralysis. Neurological physiotherapy can also help to reduce the risk of secondary complications and accelerate the process of remission.
What is the prognosis for Functional Neurological Disorder?
The prognosis for Functional Neurological Disorder varies from person to person. Some people may experience a complete recovery, while others may have persistent or recurring symptoms. Incorporation of neurological physiotherapy into the treatment plan can help to improve the prognosis.
How Can Neurological Physiotherapy Help Functional Neurological Disorder Clients
Neurological physiotherapy can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Neurological physiotherapy can help to:
– relieve pain
– reduce muscle spasms
– improve muscle strength
– improve range of motion
– improve coordination
– improve balance
– improve mobility
If you or someone you care for is living with Functional Neurological Disorder, neurological physiotherapy can help. Contact a physiotherapist today to learn more about how neurological physiotherapy can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Challenges of living with Functional Neurological Disorder
Living with Functional Neurological Disorder can be very challenging. The condition can be very debilitating and can cause a great deal of physical and emotional stress. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to improve the prognosis and quality of life. Neurological physiotherapy can help to reduce the impact of symptoms and improve quality of life.
If you or someone you know is living with Functional Neurological Disorder, contact a physiotherapist today to learn more about how neurological physiotherapy can help.
Tips for coping with Functional Neurological Disorder
1. It is important to find a support system, whether that be friends, family, or a support group specifically for those with Functional Neurological Disorder. Connecting with others who understand what you are going through is essential for coping with the condition.
2. Neurological physiotherapy can be a very effective treatment for reducing the symptoms of Functional Neurological Disorder and promoting recovery. Neurological physiotherapy should be incorporated into Functional Neurological Disorder treatment plans where motor symptoms are present.
3. It is important to stay positive and hopeful. Although the condition can be very challenging, many people with Functional Neurological Disorder go on to lead happy and fulfilling lives.
4. Take time for yourself. Relax and de-stress. Try to find healthy coping mechanisms to help you deal with the challenges of living with Functional Neurological Disorder. Your neurological physiotherapist can work with you to develop healthy coping strategies that work for you.
5. Seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you start treatment, the better your chances are for recovery. Neurological physiotherapy can help to improve the prognosis and quality of life for those with Functional Neurological Disorder.
Conclusion
Functional Neurological Disorder, also known as Conversion Disorder, is a condition that affects the nervous system. Neurological Physiotherapy can help people with Functional Neurological Disorder by providing treatment and support.
At Health Next Door, our Neurological Physiotherapists have extensive experience working with Functional Neurological Disorder clients work towards their Recovery Goals.
Book your FREE session now, call us on 0420 707 336.