Understanding FND
A careful, physiology-informed approach to a complex conditio
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a real, debilitating condition that occurs when the brain’s functional pathways are disrupted despite normal structural scans. Patients may experience a wide range of neurological symptoms, including episodes that resemble seizures, weakness, tremors, sensory disturbances, gait problems or dissociative events.
FND can be frightening and life-altering, especially when patients are told, “Your scan is normal, so nothing is wrong.” Normal imaging does not mean the symptoms are imagined. It means the cause lies in the function of the system rather than its structure.
FND can be frightening and life-altering, especially when patients are told, “Your scan is normal, so nothing is wrong.” Normal imaging does not mean the symptoms are imagined. It means the cause lies in the function of the system rather than its structure.
Identifying the Root Cause
The NICE position on FND is clear: FND is a positive diagnosis, not a diagnosis of exclusion.
However, in practice many patients with FND-like symptoms also have treatable medical contributors that can worsen or mimic functional symptoms. These are often overlooked in routine workups.
Many patients with FND-like symptoms also report:
Some of these symptoms can overlap with those seen in vitamin deficiencies (such as B12, D or iron) or other metabolic issues.
We do not claim these deficiencies cause FND. But we do recognise that metabolic issues can exacerbate symptoms or create parallel neurological disturbances that complicate the picture.
Our role is to identify and treat what is treatable. This aligns with both clinical reasoning and patient safety.
We have cared for several patients with FND-type presentations who improved significantly after a combination of:
Some cases have shown notable improvement after treating deficiencies such as B12, vitamin D or iron — particularly where symptoms overlapped with metabolic or autonomic dysfunction.
We are currently developing case studies and observational reports in this area, with the intention of contributing to the broader clinical understanding of FND.
This research-engaged approach ensures we practise responsibly, transparently, and with academic credibility.
1. A respectful, validating approach
Your symptoms are real and not dismissed as “psychological”.
2. A careful neurological and systemic review
We examine symptoms, timelines, triggers and patterns.
3. Investigation of treatable contributors
Where clinically appropriate.
4. Supportive management plan
Covering movement, pacing, metabolic health, sleep, stress physiology, and functional neurology
principles.
5. Honest communication about prognosis
FND recovery is variable. Many improve significantly. Some improve partially and recovery may take
some time. A cautious but hopeful prognosis is always safest and most accurate.
6. Ongoing follow-up and monitoring
We do not discharge you after a single consultation.
Many patients come to us after years of feeling unheard. We aim to change that experience.