THE EFFECT OF A MULTIDISCIPLINARY, SHORT-TERM, INTENSIVE THERAPY PROGRAM ON FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES IN AN ADOLESCENT WITH FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGIC DISORDER

Background: Functional Neurologic Disorder (FND) is a disorder involving abnormal movement patterns that are altered by distraction and inconsistent with organic neurologic disease. FND can lead to severe disability, impacting a person’s ability to participate in ADLs and school related activities. Research has shown that children with FND benefit most from a multidisciplinary approach to their rehab, but to date, there are no studies done on frequency of treatment recommendations for a multidisciplinary approach to treat FND.

Case Description: This case presentation involves a young, adolescent female with FND who participated in a multidisciplinary, short-term, intensive program involving physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), psychology, and social work, to improve her functional deficits. The Functional Disability Index (FDI), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and "F-words Wheel of Life" scores were used to track the patient's functional progress. Outcomes: The patient’s TUG and FDI scores initially reflected a slight functional decline after 4 weeks of intensive therapy, then significantly improved by 10 weeks. However, the patient’s F Word’s Wheel of Life satisfaction improved or remained consistent within the first 4 weeks of intensive therapy indicating improved participation in daily and peer activities. The patient's symptoms gradually resolved after this improved satisfaction and participation, and she returned to her functional baseline within 10 weeks of initiating therapy.

Conclusion: This short-term intensive program shows effectiveness in improving this patient’s overall well-being and function using a multidisciplinary approach to treatment and should be considered in the treatment of children with FND.