RESOURCES
Image courtesy of MGH-UCLA Human Connectome Project
Grid structure of major pathways of the human left cerebral hemisphere. Seen here are a major bundle of front-to-back paths (the “superior longitudinal fasciculus,” or SLF) rendered in purples. These cross nearly orthogonally to paths projecting from the cerebral cortex radially inward (belonging to the “internal capsule”), shown in orange and yellow. These data were obtained in the new MGH-UCLA 3T Connectome Scanner as part of the NIH Blueprint Human Connectome Project.
Knowledge is power. There is a small amount of research studies available for Functional Movement Disorders and Functional Neurological Disorder. Additional reads can be found by looking at the resource section of whatever it is you are reading. Yes, you will more than likely find that the end result is the same.
It is hard to believe we are still basing our medical teachings off of the philosophy of one guy, Sigmund Freud. I encourage you to check out the link provided to get an understanding of his philosophies.
Researchers have attempted to find the answers in the past. One team in particular found what is still viable information today using fMRI. Technology was finally giving out a few pieces of the puzzle, but not quite enough to make a complete picture. However, cutting-edge technology was on its way.
New technology is producing new images which may unlock the 100 year old mystery to FND. The 3T MRI has given us ‘Spectacular brain images reveal surprisingly simple brain structure’
The perplexities of this disorder effect not only patients, but also the medical community in general. A fairly recent study found Conversion Disorder to be the greatest challenge for neurologists. This research paper focus’ on the understanding and management of Conversion Disorder.
The Posts section gives personal perspective. The ending goal for everyone is to find answers. However, not everyone is in agreement on the path that Conversion Disorder/ Functional Neurological Disorders should take. The only way to get to the end result is to be open minded to others opinions and ideas.
Patient care is often a problem. Dr. Edwards has kindly taken time to help clarify and respond to questions that desperately need answers. There is a constant battle between patient care and patient cost. It was mentioned in a post that “business decisions and clinical decisions are not always compatible”. If they are not compatible then who is to oversee that they are comparable? Another group, including Dr. Stone, has taken on the challenge with A Scottish Report Stepped care for functional neurological symptoms with additional functional symptoms information on his website neurosymptoms.org.
Illness has no boundaries. Disorders do not care if you are Asian, Australian, American, English, Scottish, etc. Researchers working together have better opportunities to utilize information and resources, and those effected with these disorders have greater opportunities to have their voices be heard. The DSM-5 petition was the first time those with Conversion Disorder/Functional Neurological Disorder have united together. We are hopeful to make a difference because we are the ones that will be impacted by the ramifications of their decision.
