A dimensional approach to functional movement disorders: Heresy or opportunity

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Neurology

Background:

• Functional movement disorders (FMD) are common, disabling neuropsychiatric conditions.
• FMD are part of the functional neurological/conversion disorder spectrum.
• Understanding FMD pathophysiology has advanced significantly over the past two decades.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent neuroscience research on FMD.
• To apply the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework to FMD.
• To explore potential clinical applications of an integrative neuroscience approach.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of neuroscience research on FMD.
• Application of the RDoC conceptualization to FMD.
• Focus on functional domains and neurobiological substrates relevant to FMD.

Main Results:

• FMD involve aberrant neurocircuitry influenced by environmental and genetic factors.
• An integrative, neuroscience-based approach is beneficial for FMD research.
• The RDoC framework offers a dimensional perspective on psychiatric disorders.

Conclusions:

• An integrative framework, like RDoC, can facilitate identification of FMD mechanisms.
• This approach holds potential for clinical applicability in managing FMD.
• Neuroscience research is crucial for advancing the understanding and treatment of FMD.