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Treatment

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

  • presenting the diagnosis
    • once conversion disorder is confirmed, the key to successful treatment is the establishment of a strong therapeutic alliance with the patient and the incorporation of a goal-oriented treatment program
      • many patients who experience conversion disorder are unable to understand the inner conflict, which is perhaps occurring on an unconscious level
      • confronting patients about the "psychological nature" of their symptoms can and usually does make the symptoms worse
        • however, patients can only achieve resolution of the conflict and the physical symptoms once they are able to recognize the connection

psychotherapy

  • cornerstone of treatment for conversion disorder is psychotherapy aimed at elucidating the emotional bases of symptoms
  • psychotherapy can include individual or group therapy, behavioral therapy, hypnosis, biofeedback, and relaxation training
  • cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown the highest efficacy in treatment of pseudoseizures
  • behavioral interventions should focus on improving self-esteem, increasing the capacity to express emotions, and improving the ability to communicate comfortably with others

physical therapy

  • research has shown that physical therapy can be an effective method of treatment
    • physiotherapy treatment is essential in the management of people with conversion disorder to allow them to overcome their physical symptoms and prevent secondary complications, such as muscle weakness and stiffness, that may occur as a result of inactivity

Medication

  • conversion disorder can also be improved through the use of medications to treat underlying psychiatric issues, such as depression and anxiety
    • medications may include antidepressants, anxiolytics, or others depending on the psychiatric comorbidity

Reference:

  • Ali S et al. Conversion Disorder- Mind versus Body: A Review.Innov Clin Neurosci. 2015 May-Jun;12(5-6):27-33.
  • Dallocchio C, Marangi A, Tinazzi M. Functional or psychogenic movement disorders: an endless enigmatic tale. Front Neurol. 2015 Feb 27;6:37.

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