Functional Neurological Disorder
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition where the nervous system is unable to properly send and receive signals, leading to symptoms like limb weakness, tremors, seizures, or difficulties with speech and movement. Unlike neurological diseases caused by structural damage, FND is thought to result from a disruption in brain function rather than injury. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, and while the exact cause is not fully understood, it can be triggered by stress, trauma, or other medical conditions. Treatment focuses on rehabilitation through physical therapy, psychotherapy, and symptom management strategies to improve quality of life.
Maine Resources
Central Maine Healthcare (CMHC) - Neurology - Offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for various neurological conditions. Their board-certified neuroscience team specializes in areas such as epilepsy and movement disorders, utilizing advanced technology to deliver personalized care plans. Additionally, they provide rehabilitation services to support patients in regaining function and improving quality of life.
MaineHealth - Neurology - Offers specialized care for a wide range of neurological conditions. Patients have access to expert evaluation, diagnostic services, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches within a comprehensive neurology program.
Regional Resources
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center - The Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) Clinic at Dartmouth-Hitchcock specializes in diagnosing and treating FND, including functional seizures (PNES) and functional movement disorders. Their multidisciplinary team provides personalized care through neurology, psychiatry, physical therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients regain function and improve quality of life. The clinic emphasizes education, rehabilitation, and long-term symptom management.
Massachusetts General Hospital - Provides specialized evaluation and treatment for individuals experiencing FND symptoms, such as motor and sensory issues, tremors, and non-epileptic seizures. Their multidisciplinary approach includes neurologists, psychiatrists, and physical therapists working together to improve diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. The clinic focuses on personalized care, education, and rehabilitation strategies to help patients regain function and quality of life.
National Resources
Child Neurology Foundation (CNF) - Functional Movement Disorder - Their mission is to bridge the gap between patients, providers, and researchers to enhance understanding and treatment of pediatric neurological conditions. CNF provides resources and support for families affected by Functional Movement Disorder, a type of Functional Neurological Disorder that causes involuntary movements without a known structural neurological cause. Child Neurology Foundation focuses on education, advocacy, and connecting families with medical professionals to improve care and outcomes.
FND Guide - Dedicated to promoting awareness, support, and research for Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Their mission is to advocate for those affected by FND, advance scientific understanding, and improve access to proper care. Through their provider directory, they help patients connect with medical professionals who specialize in treating FND. The organization also offers educational resources and community support to empower individuals managing this condition.
FND Guide - Neurosymptoms.org is a patient-focused resource created by neurologist Dr. Jon Stone to help individuals understand Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). The site explains FND symptoms, causes, and treatments in an accessible way, using clear explanations and real-life examples. It emphasizes that FND is a genuine, treatable condition and provides guidance on diagnosis, self-management, and available therapies. The goal is to empower patients with knowledge and reduce stigma around FND.
FND Hope International - Find a Provider - FND Hope is dedicated to promoting awareness, support, and research for Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Their mission is to advocate for those affected by FND, advance scientific understanding, and improve access to proper care. Through their provider directory, they help patients connect with medical professionals who specialize in treating FND. The organization also offers educational resources and community support to empower individuals managing this condition.
Functional Neurological Disorder Society (FNDS) - Dedicated to advancing research, education, and clinical care for FND. The organization brings together healthcare professionals, researchers, and advocates to improve understanding and treatment options for FND. FNDS promotes evidence-based approaches, supports collaboration among specialists, and provides resources for both clinicians and patients.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke (NINDS) - Provides an overview of FND, a condition where the nervous system struggles to send and receive signals properly, leading to neurological symptoms without a structural disease. The two most common types are functional seizures (non-epileptic seizures) and functional movement disorder, which can include tremors, weakness, or paralysis. NINDS supports research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of FND to improve patient outcomes.
The Mayo Clinic - Provides an overview of FND, also sometimes known as Conversion Disorder, a condition where neurological symptoms like paralysis, tremors, or seizures occur without a clear structural cause. These symptoms are believed to result from how the brain processes signals rather than from nerve damage or disease. The exact cause is not fully understood, but stress, trauma, or underlying psychological factors may play a role. Treatment often involves a combination of therapy, rehabilitation, and symptom management to help individuals regain function and improve quality of life.