Physical therapy interventions in an inpatient rehabilitation setting for functional neurological disorder: A case series

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Patients with functional neurological disorder (FND) experience a variety of symptoms that affect their functional mobility and quality of life. Physical therapy can help promote normal movement patterns and restore independence. Although consensus recommendations have been published, choosing specific interventions can be a challenge due to the heterogeneity of symptom presentation.

OBJECTIVE:

This case series aims to detail specific interventions for three patients with FND who were admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation facility in Boston, MA, USA.

CASE REPORT:

Each presented with gait disturbances as his or her primary symptom and received physical therapy at least five times per week during the inpatient stay, as well as treatment from a multidisciplinary team.

CONCLUSION:

As emerging literature continues and the diagnosis is more widely accepted, specific symptom interventions may become more generalized and lead to better outcomes with this patient population.