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Published on: December 3, 2020
Exploring therapeutic interventions for functional neurological disorders: a comprehensive scoping review
Francesca Sireci1, Federica Ragucci2, Chiara Menozzi3
1Neurology Unit, Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
Functional Neurological Disorders (FNDs) present complex challenges in healthcare access and treatment. This review highlights the need for multidisciplinary, stepped-care models to address diverse FND manifestations effectively.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Functional Neurological Disorders (FNDs) involve complex symptom presentation and challenging healthcare navigation.
- Existing care pathways for FNDs can be circular and self-perpetuating, hindering effective treatment.
- Misinterpretations surrounding FND necessitate exploring alternatives beyond purely medical therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review mapping recent practices and interventions for Functional Neurological Disorders.
- To identify and analyze current care pathways and treatment approaches for FNDs.
- To advocate for integrated care models that move beyond traditional medical therapies.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review methodology was employed to synthesize existing literature.
- Searched for relevant papers published between January 2018 and December 2022.
- Focused on interventions and care pathways documented in US and UK healthcare settings.
Main Results:
- 31 papers were identified, primarily from US and UK healthcare systems.
- Interventions were delivered by multidisciplinary teams or individual psychotherapists.
- Distinct care pathways exist for motor vs. non-motor FNDs, with varied referrals (e.g., physical therapy for motor, mental health for non-epileptic seizures).
- Limited focus on ancillary services like social work or occupational therapy.
- High heterogeneity in assessment tools and treatment outcome measures was observed.
- Neurologists/psychiatrists diagnose, while physiotherapists/psychologists often deliver treatment.
Conclusions:
- Functional Neurological Disorders require tailored, multidisciplinary treatments.
- A stepped care model, progressing from standard to individualized modules, is recommended.
- Addressing the complex etiopathology and comorbidities of FNDs necessitates integrated, holistic approaches.
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