Published in:
Open Access
13-12-2023 | Anxiety | Original Communication
Routine outcomes and evaluation of an 8-week outpatient multidisciplinary rehabilitative therapy program for functional neurological disorder
Authors:
Lisette Guy, Gabriella A. Caceres, Temeika Jackson, Sean Gorman, Jennifer Wilson, Yvonne Hsieh, Demelza Petty, Simon Harrison, Susannah Pick
Published in:
Journal of Neurology
|
Issue 4/2024
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Abstract
Objectives
We report routinely collected outcome data from an 8-week outpatient rehabilitative therapy program. The aims of the intervention were to (1) reduce symptom severity and (2) improve functional mobility in adults with functional neurological disorder (FND).
Methods
The program delivered individual physiotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and self-management sessions, group physiotherapy, and psychoeducation. Outcome measures included the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS), 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Data were analyzed retrospectively in accordance with routine service evaluation. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests assessed changes in outcomes between weeks 1 and 8 for all patients completing treatment (n = 45). For patients who attended the 3-month follow-up (n = 31), Friedman’s ANOVA assessed overall change in outcomes over time. Post hoc Wilcoxon signed-rank tests compared pairs of time-points (Weeks 1, 8, and 3-month follow-up).
Results
Analyses of patients completing the program revealed significant improvements in scores between week 1 and week 8. Excluding the BBS, there were statistically significant improvements in all outcomes between weeks 1 and 8 and between weeks 1 and 3-month follow-up.
Discussion
This outpatient therapy program provided effective treatment for FND. Patients reported reduced anxiety, depression, and functional impairment, as well as improved performance on most physiotherapy measures.