FND Facts & Data

Functional Neurological Disorder is consistently described in peer-reviewed neurology literature as one of the most common conditions seen in outpatient neurology clinics.

Research suggests that FND accounts for approximately 5–16% of new outpatient neurology consultations. Functional seizures represent approximately 20–30% of cases seen in specialist epilepsy clinics.

FND occurs across the lifespan, including in children, adolescents, and adults, and across genders.

Although population prevalence estimates vary by region and methodology, research consistently indicates that FND represents a significant proportion of neurological consultations. It is a recognized diagnosis within modern neurological practice.

FND can affect multiple domains of nervous system functioning, including:

• Movement (weakness, tremor, gait differences)
• Sensation (numbness, altered perception)
• Speech and communication
• Seizure-like episodes (functional seizures)
• Cognition (attention, processing, memory)
• Autonomic regulation (dizziness, heart rate changes)
• Energy regulation and fatigue

Symptoms are real and involuntary. They are not consciously produced.

Severity and presentation may fluctuate over time.

FND is diagnosed by trained healthcare professionals using positive clinical signs observed during neurological examination.

Diagnosis is based on identifiable features, not simply the absence of abnormalities on scans or tests.

Clear explanation of the diagnosis is widely recognized as an important component of care and can improve patient understanding and engagement.

There is no single treatment pathway for FND. Care is typically individualized and may include:

• Education about the diagnosis
• Physiotherapy focused on movement retraining
• Occupational therapy supporting daily functioning
• Psychological support focused on regulation and coping
• Multidisciplinary rehabilitation when available

Research literature indicates that many individuals experience meaningful improvement with appropriate explanation, structured therapy, and coordinated support.

Outcomes vary depending on symptom duration, access to informed providers, and system-level factors.

Despite its recognition in neurology, FND remains:

• Variably understood across professional sectors
• Subject to outdated misconceptions
• Associated with delayed diagnosis in some settings
• Impacted by fragmented service pathways

Improving professional education, coordinated care, and access to supportive community resources can reduce harm and improve stability.

The information above reflects findings from established clinical and research literature, including work published in neurology and rehabilitation journals.

Examples of widely cited contributors and sources in FND research include:

• Stone J, Carson A, Duncan R, et al. “Who is referred to neurology clinics? The diagnoses made in 3781 new patients.” Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry.
• Stone J, LaFrance WC Jr., Brown R, et al. “Functional neurological disorder.” The Lancet Neurology.
• LaFrance WC Jr., Baker GA, Duncan R, et al. Research on functional (non-epileptic) seizures in epilepsy clinics.
• American Psychiatric Association. DSM-5-TR: Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder.

Additional references available upon request.