Definition
Functional neurological symptoms (FNS) include seizure-like events, weakness, tremor, gait disturbance, sensory changes, and other neurological presentations that are real, disabling, and not explained by structural damage.
Why it matters
FNS is one of the most common and most stigmatized categories in neurology. Modern framing has moved decisively from "conversion" to "functional" and toward positive diagnosis and specific treatment.
The Science
Jon Stone, Alan Carson, and colleagues have led a shift toward positive-clinical-signs diagnosis of FND and dedicated treatment approaches. Neuroimaging shows real functional brain changes; FND is not "faking."
The NSI Perspective
NSI treats FND as a legitimate condition of a nervous system, deserving skilled and respectful care.
Clinical Implications
Multidisciplinary care (neurology, physiotherapy, psychology) has evidence. Dismissive framing worsens outcomes.
Practical Application
If your symptoms have been treated as "nothing" because scans are clean, you may have been failed by that framing. There is a growing field ready to help.
References
- 1.Stone J, Carson A, Duncan R, et al. Symptoms "unexplained by organic disease" in 1144 new neurology out-patients. Brain. 2009;132(Pt 10):2878–2888.