Understanding Functional
Neurological Disorder (FND)

Compassionate, evidence-based rehabilitation designed to support individuals living with Functional Neurological Disorder and helps restore confidence, movement, and independence.

What is Functional
Neurological Disorder?

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition in which the brain is unable to properly send and receive signals, despite there being no obvious structural damage or abnormalities visible through standard medical tests or scans. This disruption in brain function leads to genuine symptoms, even though conventional investigations may not reveal any clear cause.

Understanding FND

Symptoms of FND

Individuals affected by FND can present with a range of symptoms. These may include tremors, feelings of weakness, and numbness. Additionally, people may experience non-epileptic seizures, which are seizure-like episodes not linked to epilepsy. Speech difficulties, as well as issues with balance or coordination, are also common features of the disorder.

Management and Treatment

Although FND is a complex condition, it is treatable. Effective management is often achieved through a personalised and supportive rehabilitation plan. Such a plan focuses on improving function and overall well-being, aiming to help individuals regain control and enhance their quality of life.

Motor Symptoms in FND

People suffering from Functional Neurological Disorder may experience abrupt changes in their ability to move. These changes can include leg weakness, tremors, or even episodes of paralysis. Notably, these symptoms often fluctuate without a clear or consistent pattern, making them unpredictable and sometimes confusing for both the individual and those around them.

Impact on Mobility and Confidence

Stumbling and experiencing frequent or irregular movements are common challenges for individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder. These difficulties can significantly increase the risk of falling, which may in turn lead to injuries or further complications. As a result, people affected by these symptoms often find that their confidence in their own mobility diminishes.

Non-Epileptic Seizures and Unresponsiveness

For some individuals living with Functional Neurological Disorder, non-epileptic seizures can occur. These episodes closely resemble epileptic seizures but are not associated with epilepsy. In addition to these seizure-like events, certain people may experience periods when they are unable to respond to their surroundings.

Fatigue and Chronic Pain

Many individuals living with Functional Neurological Disorder frequently report significant tiredness and chronic pain. These persistent symptoms can make it difficult to engage in physical activities, as both fatigue and discomfort limit a person's energy and movement.

Cognitive and Emotional Challenges

Many people with Functional Neurological Disorder encounter difficulties with memory and concentration. Problems with remembering information or focusing on tasks can hinder progress during rehabilitation. In addition, mood disorders such as depression or anxiety are common among those affected.

Misdiagnosis and Understanding of FND

Functional Neurological Disorder is frequently misdiagnosed or misunderstood by healthcare professionals. This lack of accurate recognition can lead to considerable frustration for those affected. The misunderstandings surrounding FND often result in delays in accessing appropriate medical care.

How Can We Help

Personalised Programmes for FND

Each programme is carefully designed to address your unique needs, specific symptoms, and individual objectives. The approach is flexible, allowing for adjustments as your health and circumstances change over time. As you make progress and your condition improves, the programme will evolve accordingly to ensure it continues to support your recovery and personal goals.

Rehabilitation Techniques for FND

Several therapeutic approaches are available to help individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder regain functional movement. Techniques such as modified motor imagery, mirror therapy, and movement retraining are commonly used as part of a personalised rehabilitation programme.

Modified motor imagery involves mentally rehearsing movements to re-establish connections. Mirror therapy uses visual feedback to encourage movement. Movement retraining focuses on gradually rebuilding physical skills and confidence through guided practice.

Relaxation and Pacing Techniques

In the management of FND, incorporating relaxation and pacing strategies can play a vital role in alleviating discomfort and supporting daily functioning. Structured stretching routines, focused on gentle and relaxing movements, may help ease muscle tension.

Equally important are techniques for pacing relaxation. This involves planning rest periods and relaxation activities throughout the day. Additionally, using the hands as part of relaxation can be beneficial, such as massaging affected areas or providing light tactile stimulation.

Activity Pacing and Rest Scheduling

We provide guidance in activity pacing and rest scheduling to help you manage fatigue and maintain optimal energy levels throughout the day. By learning how to plan and space out your activities, you can avoid periods of overexertion and minimise the risk of symptom flare-ups.

This approach supports a more balanced and sustainable way to participate in daily life, enabling you to conserve energy whilst still engaging in meaningful activities.

Understanding Your Health Condition

Gaining a clear understanding of your health condition can play a significant role in reducing feelings of anxiety. When you are well-informed about your diagnosis and what it entails, it becomes easier to manage worries and uncertainty.

Our team is committed to providing you with the information and guidance you need, so you can make informed decisions about your care.

Collaborative Approach to Therapy

We work closely with psychologists, neurologists, and occupational therapists to deliver truly integrated, individual-centred therapy. This collaborative approach ensures that each aspect of care is tailored to your unique needs, addressing both physical and psychological aspects.

Why Us

Our Experience with FND

We have extensive experience in treating the diverse and often complex signs and symptoms associated with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Our approach is rooted in compassion and guided by evidence-based treatments. By drawing on our knowledge and understanding of FND, we are able to address the individual needs of each person we support.

Our Service Coverage

We are proud to serve customers throughout the South East and East of England. Our coverage includes Buckinghamshire (Bucks), Oxfordshire (Oxon), Bedfordshire (Beds), Hertfordshire (Herts), Cambridgeshire (Cams), and London. We strive to make our services convenient and readily available within these regions.

Personalised Emotional Support

We take the time to understand your emotional state and listen to your individual goals. Our approach is to offer therapy that is both gentle and efficient, ensuring that you feel supported throughout your rehabilitation.

Our Collaborative Approach

We work closely with neurologists, psychologists, and a range of other therapists to ensure that each individual receives the highest quality of care. By collaborating with specialists from various disciplines, we are able to design a comprehensive support plan.

Understanding and Valuing Your Experience

We understand that living with FND is a life-long journey. Our team is dedicated to recognising the full breadth of your personal experiences, ensuring that you are genuinely listened to and understood. We strive to create an environment where you feel acknowledged, valued, and cared for.

Empowering Your Independence

Our approach extends beyond simply providing therapy. We are committed to supporting you in rebuilding your confidence, which is a crucial step towards recovery. By helping to reduce the fear often associated with movement, we aim to create a safe and encouraging environment.

Who Can Benefit

Individuals Exhibiting Motor Symptoms

Some individuals may experience motor symptoms as part of their condition. These can include paralysis, tremors, disturbances in walking (gait), or other unusual movement patterns. Such symptoms can vary in intensity and presentation from person to person.

Assisting with Non-Epileptic Seizures and Sensory Symptoms

We also offer support for individuals who experience non-epileptic seizures or encounter sensory issues such as numbness or tingling sensations. Our team is skilled in recognising and managing these symptoms, helping you to better understand and cope with their effects.

Energy Conservation and Pacing Strategies

Living with FND often means facing symptoms that can be unpredictable. To help manage these challenges, adopting strategies for energy conservation and pacing can be particularly beneficial. These approaches involve carefully planning and balancing your activities.

Energy conservation involves prioritising tasks. Pacing means spreading activities evenly over the course of the day or week.

Building Confidence and Reducing Anxiety

Our approach is centred on increasing your confidence and reducing feelings of anxiety associated with movement. We recognise that anxiety can often accompany physical symptoms, making it harder to move freely and securely.

Retraining Secure and Fluid Movement

Through guided therapy and practical strategies, we help you relearn and retrain your ability to move in a way that feels safe and natural. Our focus is on enabling you to regain secure, fluid movement, which is essential for restoring independence.

Support for Carers of Individuals with FND

Caring for someone with FND can present unique challenges and may give rise to feelings of anxiety or uncertainty. We offer tailored guidance and support to carers, helping you to understand the nature of FND and the best ways to assist your loved one.

Expert Support and Guidance

If you have found it difficult to get clear answers regarding your symptoms or condition, our team is here to help. We understand the frustrations and uncertainties that can arise. Our approach is to offer not only insight into your experiences, but also validation of your concerns.

Alongside this, we offer practical actions to support you in your journey. Our team works with you to identify strategies and next steps tailored to your individual needs.

Start Your FND Rehabilitation
Journey Today

Contact our experienced team to discuss your symptoms, receive validation and understanding, and begin a personalised rehabilitation programme tailored to your needs.