Understanding How Neuropsychologists Approach Functional Neurological Disorders After Traumatic Accidents
Understanding How Neuropsychologists Approach Functional Neurological Disorders After Traumatic Accidents
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition where individuals experience neurological symptoms—such as limb weakness, tremors, or seizures—that are not explained by structural damage to the nervous system. These symptoms often appear after traumatic events, including accidents, and can be both confusing and distressing for patients. Despite the absence of identifiable injury on brain scans, the symptoms are very real and can significantly impact daily functioning. Neuropsychologists play a vital role in recognising, assessing, and treating FND by focusing on how changes in brain function—rather than structure—can lead to these symptoms.
The Role of Neuropsychology in FND
Neuropsychologists are specialists in understanding the relationship between brain function, behaviour, and mental processes. After a traumatic accident, patients may develop symptoms resembling those of neurological conditions—such as paralysis or non-epileptic seizures—but without any medical evidence of brain injury. Rather than dismissing these concerns, neuropsychologists approach them as genuine and treatable conditions.
Their work begins with a comprehensive assessment that includes cognitive testing and clinical interviews. These help identify how an individual’s mental processing, memory, attention, and emotional state may be contributing to their physical symptoms. Often, FND arises when the brain responds to psychological distress in a way that affects physical function—essentially, the brain sends the wrong signals to the body.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Diagnosing FND requires a careful and collaborative process. Neuropsychologists assess both cognitive function and the broader psychological context of the patient’s symptoms. They look for patterns that indicate FND, such as variability in symptoms, or changes in physical ability when the patient is distracted.
Importantly, the diagnosis is not about proving the symptoms are ‘all in the mind’. Instead, it is about understanding the mind-body connection, and how emotional trauma, stress, or anxiety can manifest physically. Neuropsychological assessments can help rule out other neurological conditions and clarify the diagnosis, giving patients a clearer understanding of what they are experiencing.
Treatment and Recovery
Treatment for FND is most effective when it involves a multidisciplinary team. Neuropsychologists work closely with neurologists, physiotherapists, and psychotherapists to create a tailored recovery plan. Psychological therapies—particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)—can help patients process trauma, manage anxiety, and retrain how the brain and body communicate.
Physiotherapy may also be involved, especially when symptoms include weakness or movement difficulties. Through structured exercises and psychological support, patients can often make significant improvements in function and quality of life.
At The London Neurocognitive Clinic, our neuropsychologists specialise in the assessment and treatment of Functional Neurological Disorders following traumatic accidents. We take a compassionate and evidence-based approach to care, helping patients understand their symptoms, rebuild confidence, and regain independence. By integrating cognitive assessment, psychological therapy, and multidisciplinary collaboration, we support each individual on their journey to recovery—because every symptom has a story, and every story deserves to be heard and understood.
