On this page
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.
Understanding this FND symptom
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.
About this guide & further reading
Written and published by FND Connect. This is general information for people living with FND and those supporting them. It does not diagnose a symptom or replace advice from your clinician.
- Neurosymptoms: Sensory symptoms
- North Bristol NHS Trust: functional neurological symptoms
- Neurosymptoms: when new or different symptoms need reassessment
External resources provide further reading; their inclusion does not mean their authors have reviewed or endorsed this FND Connect guide. Page updated 3 October 2026.
Take this to your next conversation
Note what happens, how it affects your day and what you want to ask. An appointment pack can help you organise that conversation.