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Motor sensory dysfunction of upper limb due to conversion syndrome
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Functional paralysis in dominant limbs, linked to emotional issues and trauma, improved with physiatrist-led therapy. This approach, involving suggestion and exercises, successfully treated most patients, highlighting the importance of physician-patient rapport.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Functional neurological disorders can manifest as paralysis, contracture, and sensory disturbances.
- These symptoms are often associated with emotional distress and can be triggered by physical trauma or medical events.
Observation:
- Seven patients presented with functional paralysis of the dominant limb, joint contracture, and sensory disturbances.
- Preceding events included limb trauma in five patients and myocardial infarction in one.
Findings:
- Physiatrist-led treatment, incorporating persuasion, suggestion, rhythmic exercises, and emotional support, was administered.
- Five out of seven patients experienced symptom resolution and returned to work.
- Treatment failure in two patients was attributed to a lack of satisfactory physician-patient rapport.
Implications:
- Physiatrist-guided therapeutic interventions show promise for functional paralysis associated with emotional factors.
- Establishing strong physician-patient rapport is crucial for successful treatment outcomes in these cases.
- This study underscores the interplay between psychological and physical health in functional neurological disorders.