Explaining functional neurological disorder to a patient — CASC communication station

Open. Introduce role, acknowledge fear, agenda-set. “It makes sense you are worried after what your friend said — I want to explain carefully what we think is going on.” [1]

Name and reframe. “We use the term functional neurological disorder, sometimes still called conversion disorder in older notes. It means a problem with how the nervous system is functioning — a bit like a software problem rather than a permanent broken cable. The weakness is real. You are not crazy and you are not putting it on.” [1][2][4]

How we know. “When I examined you, parts of the examination showed that the pathways can still work when attention is redirected — for example Hoover's sign. That positive finding helps us make the diagnosis; it is not based only on a normal scan.” [1][4]

Treatment. “Because the system is not destroyed, many people improve with the right help. Specialist physiotherapy retrains movement and reduces the brain’s over-focus on the weak leg. Psychological therapy helps with fear, panic, and getting confidence back. We work as a team and follow you up.” [2][3]

Hope and safety-net. “I cannot promise a day-by-day timeline, but improvement is possible and we will work actively toward walking more confidently. If new red-flag symptoms appear, we reassess — we do not ignore you.” [2]

Close. Summarise, offer written information, name next appointment, invite questions, document discussion. [1]