Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) although not always easily recognised is not an uncommon condition. FND is a condition that shows no speciality bias, presenting across all areas of practice including Emergency Departments and Outpatient Physiotherapy practices. A patient may present with FND as the primary complaint, or it may be comorbid with other conditions. This presentation will troubleshoot features to assist with the early recognition of FND and discuss appropriate management, including common pitfalls. A series of case studies will be presented to highlight and inform Physiotherapists in their respective scopes of practice with the management of these patients.
Dharsha Petrie, MACP, is an APA Titled Neurological Physiotherapist and an advanced physiotherapist at the Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service in Brisbane. Dharsha has an interest in neurological rehabilitation including for stroke, traumatic brain injury and movement disorders. She is the national chair of the APA Neurology group. Dharsha was the Physiotherapy Team Leader for Australia's first dedicated public FND Clinic at Mater Neurosciences 2015-2019 and although that clinic has since closed, she remains a leader in this space actively contributing across the continuum of care in clinical practice, professional networks, multidisciplinary education, peer supervision and research in Australia and internationally.
Advanced Practice (including Emergency Department) and Neurology National Groups
29/07/2025
1.5 hours
Please note: The content of this Lecture on Demand (LOD) was captured via a recording of a live lecture at the APA premises. Due to the nature of the event and the recording method, this LOD may not have captured some of the questions/comments from live audience. Your purchase of this module indicates your acceptance of this.
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