Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a complex condition, marked by neurological symptoms such as seizures, tremors, weakness, or paralysis. There’s no clear structural cause in the brain, but we recognise that trauma is often at the root. Despite normal readings on scans and tests, individuals with FND experience very real and often debilitating symptoms. Recent advances in neuroscience offer new hope and we are pleased to be offering one of the most promising interventions – neurofeedback.
FND can be incredibly disruptive, but recovery is possible. Neurofeedback offers a way to gently retrain the brain and help return it to a more regulated state. If you’re living with FND and seeking innovative, non-invasive options, neurofeedback is worth exploring.
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, is a non-invasive therapy that trains the brain to self-regulate. It involves monitoring brain activity in real-time using EEG (electroencephalogram) and providing feedback to help the brain shift into more optimal patterns of activity. Think of it like a mirror for your brain: by seeing how it operates, your brain learns to correct itself.
Why Neurofeedback for Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and Seizures?
Functional Neurological Disorder is believed to result from a breakdown in communication between different parts of the brain — especially those responsible for movement, emotion regulation, and self-awareness. Traditional treatments like physical therapy, trauma psychotherapy, and medication can help, but many patients still experience lingering symptoms.
Neurofeedback addresses FND at the neural level, offering a novel and empowering approach:
- Targeting brain dysregulation: Neurofeedback can help normalize abnormal patterns of brain activity often seen in FND patients, particularly in areas related to motor function, attention, emotional processing, and brain instabilities such as seizures
- Non-invasive and drug-free: This makes neurofeedback a low-risk option, particularly attractive for individuals who are sensitive to medications or seeking integrative approaches.
What Does a Neurofeedback Session Look Like?
- Training Sessions: Sensors are placed on the scalp to monitor brainwaves. Our clients watch a video, and feedback is provided in real-time based on brain activity. If the brain moves toward healthier patterns, the feedback is positive (e.g., the video plays smoothly,).
- Progress Monitoring: Over 10-20 sessions, the brain “learns” to function more efficiently, and we track and monitor symptoms throughout treatment.
What the Research Says
While research into neurofeedback for FND is still emerging, early studies and case reports are promising:
- Improvements in motor function, reduction in non-epileptic seizures, and better emotional regulation have all been documented in clinical case series.
- Some comorbid conditions, such as PTSD and anxiety have shown transferability to FND clients.
- Our own experience concurs with these early studies; we have seen reduced seizures, more physical movement, less anxiety in our clients, greater emotional regulation.
The NHS has an informative webpage about FND: Functional neurological disorder (FND) | NHS inform
Neurofeedback may be an excellent addition to your recovery if you:
- Are open to complementary approaches
- Are committed to attending regular sessions over weeks or months
- Have persistent FND symptoms despite other treatments