A physical therapy programme for functional motor symptoms: A telemedicine pilot study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Physical Therapy
• Telemedicine

Background:

• Functional motor symptoms (FMS) are a neuropsychiatric condition.
• Physiotherapy is an emerging treatment for FMS.
• Telemedicine offers a novel approach to healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a physiotherapy-based telemedicine program for FMS.
• To assess the impact on motor symptoms, anxiety, depression, alexithymia, and quality of life.

Main Methods:

• 18 FMS patients participated in a 24-session program (3 in-person, 21 tele-sessions).
• Interventions included education, movement retraining, and management plans.
• Assessments included the Psychogenic Movement Disorders Rating Scale (PMDRS) and SF-36 quality of life survey at baseline, 12, and 24 weeks.

Main Results:

• 66.7% and 77.8% of patients reported improvement at 12 and 24 weeks, respectively.
• Significant improvements were observed in PMDRS scores.
• Quality of life domains (general health, vitality, social functioning, mental health) showed significant improvement.

Conclusions:

• Combining physiotherapy with telemedicine is a valuable approach for FMS treatment.
• This innovative program can positively impact motor and psychological symptoms.
• Telemedicine-enhanced physiotherapy offers a promising avenue for managing FMS.