Landmark Neuroimaging
Modern FND science is built on functional neuroimaging. Studies using fMRI and PET scans have identified the specific "signatures" of functional symptoms in the brain.
Voon et al. (2010): The Agency Deficit
Identified decreased activity in the right temporoparietal junction (rTPJ) during functional movements, providing a biological explanation for why symptoms feel involuntary.
Espay et al. (2018): Predictive Coding
Outlined the Bayesian brain model for FND, highlighting how top-down expectations can override sensory evidence from the limbs.
Key Clinical Trials
Evidence-based treatment for FND is growing. Landmark trials have proven the effectiveness of specialized multidisciplinary care.
- COS Trial (2014): Demonstrated significant improvement for PNES patients receiving specialized CBT compared to standard care.
- Physio4FND (2020): A landmark multicenter trial showing that specialized FND physiotherapy is highly effective in restoring mobility.
- ROSE Study: Investigated the role of early diagnosis and education in preventing long-term disability in FND.
The Global Research Network
Future Directions
Neuromodulation
Research into TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) as a way to "re-set" network activity in functional motor disorders.
Biomarkers
The search for objective physiological markers (like heart rate variability) that can aid in diagnosis and treatment monitoring.