A functional movement disorder is a condition that generally occurs whenever you experience involuntary and unusual body positions or movements.
It mainly occurs due to a problem with the way signals are sent throughout the brain. This condition is also called conversion disorders and psychogenic movement disorders.
Unlike any other movement disorder such as Parkinson’s disease, functional movement disorder is not responsible for causing any damage or disease to the nervous system.
It means that treatments are available to treat this particular condition. So, it gets better with time and proper treatment.
Major Causes Of Functional Movement Disorders
Although the precise cause of functional movement disorders is not yet identified, FMD is not caused due to structural brain damage. But, it occurs due to a functional change.
This disorder results from a complex interaction between neurology or psychology or, more simply, emotion and brain biology. Often, these particular disorders are triggered by an emotional, physical event or illness.
Previously, these disorders were known to be psychogenic disorders, as in most of the patients, there was the involvement of psychological stressors or symptoms in triggering the symptoms.
However, it is significant to note that this is not obvious to the physician or the patient every time. Also, not always a psychological stressor or event is necessary to trigger this functional movement disorder.
Symptoms Of Functional Movement Disorder
If you are suffering from a functional movement disorder, then you may experience several symptoms as discussed below:
- Gait Or Walking Problems: You may come across a wide variety of issues at the time of walking or gait.
For instance, you may find it difficult to stand up straight while walking. You may walk unsteadily, drag one of your legs or be very frightened of falling.
- Contractures Or Spasms: Your limbs may freeze in an uncomfortable or awkward position with contractures or spasms.
- Tremor: A tremor refers to shaking in a limb that you would not be able to control.
Tremors generally range from very minor to severe. Sometimes, it can even be disabling. Some of the individuals can experience tremors that come and go.
- Twitches Or Jerks: You may experience twitching or jerky movements.
The symptoms of functional movement disorders are considered to be very common. It is evident from many research studies that receiving treatment can effectively improve the chance of resolving your symptoms.
Treatment Of Functional Movement Disorders
It is usual for anyone dealing with functional movement disorders to feel stressed and frustrated. It would be best if you straightforwardly went to a doctor without any delay whenever you suffer from this condition.
They will first examine your state, and if required, they may refer you to a physical therapy clinic.
Once you approach a physical therapist, they will do a detailed evaluation of your condition.
After that, they will work with you to devise a tailored treatment plan for your unique needs and symptoms. Their main goal is to improve your quality of life, mainly through therapy, exercise, and medications.
Your physical therapist will use the best treatment approaches to address your issues. It includes:
-
Exercise
Exercise helps to improve your flexibility, range of motion, or strength effectively. It can be either active or passive. Passive exercise allows you to relax as it is conducted with the assistance of another person, i.e., a physical therapist.
On the other hand, active exercise is an exercise you have to perform independently. Whenever you visit a physical therapy clinic for treatment, they will teach you some exercise to improve your mobility effectively.
-
TENS And Electrical Stimulation
Your physical therapist will also try this treatment approach to decrease your pain and improve your condition. This therapy works by teaching the muscles how to function correctly.
-
Massage
Your therapist will carry out massages with the help of their hands to decrease muscle tension, improve circulation and reduce pain. Some of the most effective massage techniques include petrissage, effleurage, and trigger point massage.
-
Hot And Cold Therapy
Heat works by increasing the circulation to the affected tissues. In turn, it provides relaxation to the muscles and provides relief.
On the other hand, ice or cold packs are generally used for controlling inflammation and improving the condition. Your physical therapist will alternate between these two therapies to provide you with utmost relief.
-
Kinesiology Taping
This particular tape is made of a flexible fabric that pulls and stretches whenever you move.
Your therapist can use this for different functions, including muscle facilitation, muscle inhibition, and a lot more. Physical therapists often use it to augment your rehabilitation program.
Wrapping Up
So, the above-discussed ones are some of the best physical therapy approaches that can treat your functional movement disorder.
Other than these, there are many different PT approaches that you can opt for depending on the severity of your condition.
I am sure you have found this comprehensive guide to be very helpful.
