Randomised feasibility study evaluating eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy for functional...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) presents with diverse neurological symptoms like seizures and limb weakness.
• Current treatments include physiotherapy and psychological therapies.
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, used for trauma, shows potential for FND.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of an FND-specific EMDR protocol.
• To determine if a large-scale trial evaluating EMDR for FND is warranted.
• To explore potential benefits of EMDR in FND patients.

Main Methods:

• A randomized feasibility study involving 50 participants with FND.
• Participants were randomized to EMDR plus standard neuropsychiatric care (NPC) or NPC alone.
• Feasibility assessed by recruitment, adherence, and completion rates; safety and satisfaction were also evaluated.

Main Results:

• Recruitment rate was 58%, adherence 88%, and completion 68-76%.
• EMDR + NPC group reported greater satisfaction and FND improvement.
• EMDR + NPC showed greater reductions in PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, disability, and healthcare use.

Conclusions:

• An FND-specific EMDR protocol is feasible and acceptable.
• EMDR shows potential positive effects on FND symptoms, mental health, disability, and healthcare utilization.
• A full-scale trial is recommended to establish EMDR's efficacy for FND.