Case Report: Electroencephalography-informed low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation targeting the supplementary motor area in severe functional movement disorder
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Published on: May 23, 2025
Chiaki Takahashi1, Takashi Asahi2, Motoki Kanda3
1Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Japan.
Background:
Functional movement disorder (FMD) is increasingly being recognized as a condition associated with abnormal brain network connectivity; however, effective treatment strategies remain limited.
Methods:
We report the case of a patient with severe FMD that developed following an occupational injury and was characterized by functional tremors accompanied by migraines and prominent autonomic symptoms. Based on electroencephalography (EEG) network analysis, low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation targeting the supplementary motor area was administered, followed by staged rehabilitation incorporating visual feedback.
Results:
The combined intervention reduced tremors and improved gait speed, activities of daily living, and EEG network connectivity.
Conclusion:
This case highlights the potential utility of combining EEG-guided neuromodulation with staged rehabilitation for the treatment of FMD and supports further investigation of this approach.