Physiotherapy students' perceptions and understanding of functional movement disorder (FMD): a qualitative study.

Abstract

Functional Movement Disorder (FMD) is a debilitating condition with a growing prevalence. Students may encounter FMD in future practice, however, it is unclear if they feel prepared to provide high-quality care. This study will investigate undergraduate physiotherapy students' perspectives and understanding of FMD which may inform appropriate FMD content for undergraduate physiotherapy programmes. Focus groups were advertised to third-year undergraduate physiotherapy students studying at a South-West university in Bristol. England. Five researchers were involved in data collection and analysis. Five themes were identified following two focus groups (<i>n</i> = 8 participants). Students understanding of FMD stemmed primarily from the teaching they received during their undergraduate course. Whilst participants were generally positive about the teaching, it was clear that understanding was limited, and improvements could be made to feel more confident working with patients with FMD in the future. Results indicate that students' understanding of FMD could be improved through more comprehensive teaching during the undergraduate physiotherapy course. Current gaps in knowledge include causes, diagnostic signs, and treatment interventions for FMD. Further research investigating gaps in qualified physiotherapists knowledge of FMD could provide more insights into what should be included in FMD teaching at the undergraduate level.