Individualized Physiotherapy of Upper Body Functional Movement Disorder - Two Illustrative Cases

Background: Information on specialist physiotherapeutic treatment for functional movement disorders is scarce. Previous studies focussed on functional gait disorders and availability of descriptions of the practical application especially for other body regions is very limited.

Cases: We present two illustrative cases, demonstrating the key elements of physiotherapy for the treatment of functional movement disorders beyond gait difficulties. The individual applicability of the specific core elements of physiotherapy, adapted to the individual needs of each patient, are described. We also explain, how different sensory stimuli can be used to shift attention away from symptoms and thus reduce them. Moreover, we discuss how patients' agency can be encouraged and how this results in therapy key moments, contributing to a sustained improvement of symptoms.

Conclusion: Thus, our case series are intended to guide clinicians and therapists alike, to promote disease-specific physiotherapy for this common and treatable neuropsychiatric disorder.