Physical Therapy of Conversion Disorder - Case Report -

전환장애의 물리치료 - 증례보고 -

  • Oh, Duck-Won (Dept. of Physical Therapy, Yongdong Severance Hospital) ;
  • Jung, Nak-Su (Dept. of Physical Therapy, Singu Junior College)
  • 오덕원 (영동세브란스병원 물리치료실) ;
  • 정낙수 (신구전문대학 물리치료과)
  • Published : 1998.02.19

Abstract

Conversion disorder is defined as a specific and enduring sensorimotor dysfunction that contradicts known neurological or musculoskeletal pathology or physical findings. The patient with conversion symptoms unconsciously adopts these symptoms to convert their psychological stress to a physical phenomenon. Conversion disorder often involves the mimicry of organic symptoms similar to those experienced by a relative or an acquaintance. Because conversion symptoms are produced by psychological stress, specific treatment strategy and reinforcement program are needed for treatment. Treatment comprises avoiding unnecessary medical tests and removing symptoms by using graded exercises given by physical therapists. Clinical therapists must maintain a continuous and detailed follow-up to completely recover from conversion symptoms. The goal of treatment is to emphasize health rather than disease, to resolve physical symptoms, and to prevent recurrence. This study looks into the case reports of 4 patients diagnosed with conversion disorder.

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