Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a varied and highly complex neurological condition which can present with disorders of body movement, sensation, speech, and function.
Here are 5 facts about Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) that you may not know:
It’s important to raise awareness about FND so that more people can get the help and support they need. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of FND, don’t hesitate to speak to an ARC physiotherapist.
FND is more common than you might think – accounting for around 9% of neurological hospital admissions in New Zealand and Australia
The symptoms of FND can vary greatly from person to person due to the complexity of the neural pathways. These symptoms can include affected movement, sensation, cognition, vision, hearing, speaking, and more.
FND can be both disabling and costly to the individual. A 2018 survey of 179 Australians with FND found that 70% were unable to work, leading to financial challenges.
Diagnosis of FND can be slow and frustrating. More than 60% of those questioned in the same 2018 survey had waited more than a year for their diagnosis and approximately 35% waited more than 4 years!
Symptoms of FND can fluctuate greatly over time. People with FND may have symptoms all the time or intermittently across a day, week or month. Symptoms may go into ‘remission’ and re-occur years later for some or never for others.