Functional Neurologic Disorders

Functional somatic symptom disorder is an umbrella term that includes functional symptoms that occur across multiple body systems and involve disturbances in neurophysiologic regulation. These include diagnoses such as functional neurologic symptom disorders, functional gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain syndromes, chronic fatigue syndrome, and dysautonomia. These disturbances are often the result of stress, either physical, psychological, or both. The brainbody stress systems involved in pain and emotion are interconnected. Activation of any part of this system through physical or psychological threat triggers the body’s stress response. When the stress system is activated too much or for too long, functional symptoms may appear. This chapter outlines the best ways to communicate with patients and families about these functional disturbances. It outlines the role of interdisciplinary treatment, involving physical and occupational therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness interventions, which is integral to successful recovery, along with guidelines for delivery of care.