A care manager who partners with you and your caregivers to help you adjust to your injury and prepare to return home.
We understand how challenging Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) can be, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our FND Program is designed to help you regain control, rebuild confidence, and feel more like yourself again. With expert care tailored to your unique needs, we’ll work together to improve your physical function, restore your independence, and enhance your overall well-being.
What is Functional Neurological Disorder?
The exact cause of FND is unknown. We do know that FND is a neurological condition that affects how the brain sends and receives signals, leading to symptoms like:
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Dizziness
- Speech difficulties
- Sensory disturbances (e.g., numbness or tingling)
- Chronic pain
- Involuntary movements, tremors, or spasms
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- Extreme slowness or fatigue
These symptoms are not caused by structural damage to the brain or spinal cord but are very real and can significantly impact daily life.
/ Your Experience
Your Brain Injury Recovery Journey at Mary Free Bed
Our Approach to FND Treatment
Our expert rehabilitation team uses a multidisciplinary approach to address your unique needs, focusing on restoring function and building skills for long-term success.
Individualized Therapy Plan
Your treatment plan is personalized to target your specific symptoms and goals. Therapy may include:
- Physical Therapy: Improve strength, coordination, and mobility.
- Occupational Therapy: Develop skills for daily tasks and work activities.
- Speech Therapy: Address communication or swallowing issues, if needed.
- Rehabilitation Psychology: Learn strategies to manage stress and symptoms.
- Recreational Therapy: Reconnect with activities that bring you joy and purpose.
Inpatient Rehabilitation: Comprehensive FND Care
During your stay, you’ll work closely with a team of specialists, including physicians, therapists, psychologists, nurses, and care managers.
- Daily Therapy: Participate in several hours of intensive, customized therapy each day.
- Mastery-Based Progression: Build confidence as you master one skill before moving to the next.
- Positive Focus: We celebrate every step of your progress, reinforcing helpful behaviors and movements.
- Length of Stay: Your stay is based on your progress and readiness for discharge.
FND Rehabilitation Specialists
Everyone on your FND rehabilitation team has a particular area of expertise and responsibility. They work together with the goal of maximizing your independence.
/ Meet the Team
Meet Your FND Rehabilitation Team
Your dedicated team includes specialists from various disciplines, all experts in brain injury rehab. They work together to maximize your recovery and independence.
You and your family or caregivers are the most important members of the team. You’re encouraged to have an active role in your treatment plan and help set goals for your rehabilitation.
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Board-certified rehabilitation physicians, hand-selected for you and your condition(s).
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Occupational therapists to help you resume independence with daily activities, such as brushing your teeth, getting dressed, doing laundry and grocery shopping.
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Physical therapists to evaluate your strength, mobility and level of independence, then provide rehabilitation.
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Psychologists focus on your emotional well-being, which is just as important as your physical condition.
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Registered nurses with rehabilitation and wound care certification, as well as nurse technicians.
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Speech-language pathologists to help you, if necessary, with eating, swallowing, speaking, breathing and so on.
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Recreational therapists to help you get back to doing things you enjoy or introduce you to new leisure activities.
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Registered dietitians to evaluate your nutritional needs and monitor your food intake.
/ Outpatient Experience
Outpatient Therapy
Our team works with you and your family to create a comprehensive follow-up plan, which may include:
- Outpatient therapy or community-based resources
- Follow-up appointments with physicians or mental health professionals
- Exercises or strategies to continue your progress at home
/ FAQs
FAQs
Below are questions we often hear from patients who have experienced FND. Talk with your treatment team about specific questions or concerns.
What causes Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?
FND occurs when there’s a disruption in how the brain sends and receives signals, leading to neurological symptoms. While it isn’t caused by structural damage to the brain or spinal cord, factors like stress, trauma, or underlying psychological conditions can sometimes play a role.
Is FND a real medical condition?
Yes, FND is a legitimate and recognized medical condition. The symptoms are real and can significantly impact daily life. At Mary Free Bed, we treat FND with the same care and expertise as any other neurological condition.
Can FND be treated?
Yes, FND is treatable, and many people see significant improvements with the right care. Our rehabilitation program is designed to address your specific symptoms, improve physical function, and provide tools for long-term management.
How is FND different from other neurological disorders?
Unlike conditions caused by structural damage (like a stroke or multiple sclerosis), FND symptoms arise from functional disruptions in how the brain processes information. This means there’s no identifiable physical damage, but the symptoms are just as real.
What can I expect during treatment?
At Mary Free Bed, treatment is tailored to your needs. You’ll participate in daily therapy sessions with a multidisciplinary team, focusing on improving strength, mobility, coordination, and overall function. We also provide psychological support to address stress and coping strategies.
How long will I stay in inpatient rehabilitation?
The length of your stay depends on your progress and goals. There’s no set timeline, as we focus on helping you safely perform daily activities and achieve independence.
Will I need ongoing treatment after rehab?
Some patients benefit from outpatient therapy or follow-up care after their inpatient stay. Our team will work with you to create a personalized plan for continued progress, including appointments with physicians or mental health professionals, if needed.
Is FND caused by mental health issues?
FND is not “all in your head.” While stress or psychological factors can contribute to symptoms in some cases, FND is a neurological condition involving functional, rather than structural, changes in the brain. Our treatment approach considers the physical and emotional aspects of the disorder.
How can I support a loved one with FND?
Understanding and patience are key. Educate yourself about FND to better understand their experience, and encourage them to follow their treatment plan. If you’re their caregiver, we’ll include you in the rehabilitation process to ensure you’re equipped to provide support.
What makes Mary Free Bed’s FND program unique?
We combine specialized expertise, individualized care, and a positive, patient-centered approach to help you achieve meaningful progress. Our mastery-based rehabilitation model focuses on building confidence and skills that support long-term success.
Where can I learn more about Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?
Here are some helpful resources for learning about FND, including symptoms, treatment, and support:
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS):
Comprehensive information on FND symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
Visit the NINDS website - Functional Neurological Disorder Society:
Offers research, treatment options, and support group details.
Visit the FND Society website - FND Hope Foundation:
A non-profit organization providing support and resources for individuals and families affected by FND.
Visit the FND Hope website - FND Guide (Neurosymptoms.org):
Features videos, fact sheets, and an FND app for additional information and support.
Visit FND Guide
Still have questions? Feel free to contact us.