Teenager's Rare Neurological Disorder Diagnosis Follows Months of Disbelief

A 16-year-old girl from Hadera, Uri Malka, has finally received a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) after enduring ten months of severe pain and leg weakness that left her reliant on a wheelchair. Uri recounts her frustrating journey, during which many doctors dismissed her symptoms, suggesting she was faking or exaggerating her pain. In one instance, a doctor reportedly refused to examine her, sending her home with severe pain and leaving her feeling "mentally ill."

Uri's condition began with difficulty walking and pain on her right side, rapidly worsening to the point where she needed assistance for basic daily activities. The diagnosis of FND, a condition where the brain and body fail to communicate properly, was only confirmed in March after extensive medical consultations. Her mother, Tali, actively researched the disorder after initial medical evaluations proved inconclusive, facing skepticism from some healthcare professionals.

FND can manifest with various neurological symptoms, such as involuntary movements and gait disturbances, without any identifiable structural damage to the brain or nerves. Dr. Alexis Mittelpunkt, a pediatric neurology and rehabilitation specialist, likens it to a software issue in a computer with otherwise functional hardware. He notes an increase in FND cases, particularly among children, since the COVID-19 pandemic and especially since October 7th, attributing this rise to psychological and emotional triggers.

Uri and her family are preparing to travel to a specialized clinic in the United States next month for intensive rehabilitation, hoping for a full recovery. Uri, who previously volunteered for Magen David Adom and dreamed of becoming a doctor, now aspires to specialize in neurology. She emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about FND, stating, "It is very important to me that people, and especially doctors, recognize this disorder, so that no one feels like they are being thought of as lying, because this is real pain."

Dr. Mittelpunkt highlights that while medical literature supports diagnosing FND based on symptoms, many patients still face disbelief from the medical system. He also points out the limited multidisciplinary treatment options available in Israel for such conditions, often leading to fragmented care. The family is optimistic about the upcoming treatment in the U.S., which offers a comprehensive approach combining physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, and physical training.