Efficacy of a 5-day, intensive, multidisciplinary, outpatient physical and occupational therapy protocol in the treatment of functional movement disorders: A retrospective study

Abstract

BackgroundThe use of rehabilitation services has been shown to be beneficial for patients with functional movement disorders (FMD). However, there is great variability in the type of rehabilitation services utilized. In the present study we aimed at determining the efficacy of an intense outpatient physical rehabilitation program as a treatment modality for patients with FMD. MethodsEighteen participants underwent treatment in a specialized outpatient rehabilitation program utilizing a multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of FMD. Participants completed a series of tests on day one and day five of the program. ResultsResults indicated statistically significant improvements in all but one motor and gait outcomes in patients with functional movement disorders treated with physical rehabilitation. Conclusion: These results provide support for the continued use of physical and occupational therapy for functional movement disorder patients. Further research is needed to fully validate these findings and there remains a need for further study into multidisciplinary approaches that may be even more efficacious.