About Functional Neurological Disorder
FND is a condition in which the brain's networks don't function correctly — producing very real neurological symptoms without structural damage showing on scans.
Common symptoms
FND can look different for everyone. Symptoms may fluctuate day-to-day and can affect movement, sensation, cognition and more.
- Non-epileptic seizures
- Limb weakness or paralysis
- Tremor and involuntary movements
- Gait and balance difficulties
- Sensory changes and numbness
- Speech and swallowing issues
- Cognitive fog and fatigue
- Chronic pain
Causes & triggers
FND often develops after a physical injury, illness or period of significant stress. The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it involves a disruption in how the brain processes signals.
Diagnosis
FND is a positive diagnosis based on clinical signs — not simply the absence of other conditions. A neurologist experienced with FND can identify it reliably.
Treatment
Multidisciplinary care works best: neurology, physiotherapy tailored to FND, psychological therapies (like CBT), and self-management strategies.
Prognosis
Many people improve significantly with the right support. Early recognition and education are key.
Myth vs. Fact
FND isn't real.
FND is a recognised neurological condition. Symptoms are genuine and involuntary.
It's all in your head.
It's a problem with how the brain sends and receives signals — not imagination.
You can just snap out of it.
Recovery takes time, therapy and support — willpower alone is not enough.