How it can feel
- Patches of numbness that do not match a simple nerve map in the way people expect.
- Pins and needles, buzzing, or “cotton wool” skin.
- Hypersensitivity where light touch hurts.
- A sense the limb is not fully connected.
Day to day
- Difficulty trusting the limb for fine tasks or walking.
- Sleep disruption from sensory noise.
- Fear that something is being missed on tests.
Why this can be FND (simply)
Sensation is filtered and interpreted by the nervous system. In FND those filters can mis-fire, producing real sensory experience without a structural cut on imaging.
What can help
- Thorough assessment so dangerous causes are not missed — then a clear FND-compatible explanation if that is the diagnosis.
- Desensitisation and sensory retraining approaches guided by therapists.
- Pacing and reducing total sensory load.
- Addressing pain, sleep and anxiety loops that amplify sensory volume.
This is information, not a treatment plan. Personal care decisions belong with you and your clinicians.
FAQs
Can sensory FND exist without weakness?
Yes. Sensory symptoms can dominate. Combinations are also common.