Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition where patients experience genuine neurological symptoms — such as limb weakness, tremors, seizures, speech difficulties, or sensory disturbances — that are not caused by structural damage to the brain or nerves. These symptoms arise from a problem with how the brain sends and processes signals, rather than from a disease or injury of the nervous system.

For residents of Miranda and the Sutherland Shire, Southern Neurology, located in nearby Kogarah, provides expert diagnosis and management of FND. Their experienced team of neurologists offers comprehensive assessments and works closely with allied health professionals to deliver a holistic, patient-centred approach to care.

Southern Neurology, located in Miranda, New South Wales offers Functional neurological disorder treatment in Miranda.Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition where a person experiences symptoms of a neurological nature—such as seizures, paralysis, tremors, or sensory disturbances—without an identifiable structural or neurological disease explaining them.is committed to delivering high-quality neurological care with a patient-centered approach.

Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder

FND is one of the most common causes of disability seen in neurology clinics. The condition can affect both movement and sensation and often leads to distress and functional impairment. Unlike other neurological diseases, there is no damage visible on scans or tests — but the symptoms are real and can be just as disabling.

Common symptoms of FND include:

Limb weakness or paralysis

Tremors or abnormal movements

Non-epileptic seizures (also called dissociative or functional seizures)

Speech or swallowing difficulties

Numbness, tingling, or altered sensation

Gait (walking) disturbances

Visual symptoms

Symptoms often fluctuate and may be triggered or worsened by stress, illness, or fatigue.

Diagnosis at Southern Neurology

Diagnosing FND requires careful clinical assessment. At Southern Neurology, the diagnosis is made based on positive signs during the neurological examination, rather than simply ruling out other conditions. Tests such as MRI, nerve conduction studies (NCS), and EEG (if seizures are present) may be done to confirm that there is no structural cause for the symptoms.

Positive clinical signs — such as Hoover’s sign for functional weakness or tremor entrainment tests — help differentiate FND from other neurological disorders. This approach ensures patients receive a confident diagnosis, which is the first step towards recovery.

Treatment Options

FND is best managed through a multidisciplinary approach. At Southern Neurology, the care team works with local physiotherapists, psychologists, and other specialists to create a personalised treatment plan.

Key treatments include:

Specialist physiotherapy: Focused on retraining normal movement patterns and improving strength and coordination. This is particularly important for motor symptoms such as limb weakness or gait issues.

Psychological therapies: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other approaches can help address associated stress, mood disorders, or trauma, and are especially useful for non-epileptic seizures.

Education and support: Helping patients and families understand the condition reduces fear and promotes recovery.

Where appropriate, Southern Neurology also liaises with local allied health providers in Miranda to ensure coordinated ongoing care.

When to Seek Help

If you or a loved one is experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms such as weakness, tremors, or non-epileptic seizures, contact your GP for a referral to Southern Neurology. Early diagnosis and the right support can make a significant difference in managing FND and improving quality of life.