Functional Overlay Model of Persistent Post-Concussion Syndrome, 2023, Mavroudis et al

Abstract

Persistent post-concussion syndrome (PPCS) is a complex and debilitating condition that can develop after head concussions or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). PPCS is characterized by a wide range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, cognitive deficits, and emotional changes, that can persist for months or even years after the initial injury. Despite extensive research, the underlying mechanisms of PPCS are still poorly understood; furthermore, there are limited resources to predict PPCS development in mTBI patients and no established treatment. Similar to PPCS, the etiology and pathogenesis of functional neurological disorders (FNDs) are not clear neither fully described. Nonspecific multifactorial interactions that were also seen in PPCS have been identified as possible predispositions for FND onset and progression. Thus, we aimed to describe a functional overlay model of PPCS that emphasizes the interplay between functional and structural factors in the development and perpetuation of PPCS symptoms.

Our model suggests that the initial brain injury triggers a cascade of physiological and psychological processes that disrupt the normal functioning of the brain leading to persistent symptoms. This disruption can be compounded by pre-existing factors, such as genetics, prior injury, and psychological distress, which can increase the vulnerability to PPCS. Moreover, specific interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, neurofeedback, and physical exercise can target the PPCS treatment approach.

Thus, the functional overlay model of PPCS provides a new framework for understanding the complex nature of this condition and for developing more effective treatments. By identifying and targeting specific functional factors that contribute to PPCS symptoms, clinicians and researchers can improve the diagnosis, management, and ultimately, outcomes of patients with this condition.

Open access, https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/13/7/1028

 

Yep, there it is.

 

Spoke too soon: Now fallen out of favour but an important conceptual link between malingering and false illness belief is "Functional overlay"

Went back to check Google Scholar - could only find three mentions of the precise term 'functional overlay', since year 2000 - why have the authors chosen to resurrect the term now ?

 

They speak of promising results, and yet dispense those routinely to thousands per year, where they "explain" the etiology, including their behavioral stuff which "can target"... whatever. Just "can". Ridiculous. They use this stuff on real human beings, on the basis of "hey, there's no evidence that it can't work".

It's both preliminary and effective in clinical use, depending on what they want to justify. This nonsense is completely out of control. They are trying too hard to justify their past failures and can't admit that it was always opinions and nonsense.

And I can't find it but there were recent articles talking about post-concussion health issues as a separate disease, distinct from the acute injury. They speak of psychological factors, but basically ignore the, you know, concussion!

 

My first thought on reading the abstract is that the argument for a functional overlay in PPCS are logically in the realm of homeopathy’s doctrine of similars.

 

I wonder if we have not perhaps reached peak makey-uppy-itis

This really is peak

Word salad: "Nonspecific multifactorial interactions...." I mean who actually understands wot the heck this is or means, or is meant to mean!

"Thus, the functional overlay model...." Blah, blah, blah

 

Yip, promising, like a glass of water, a hug, some salad, a short walk in the woods, a touch of homeopathy, maybe a nice meal and a glass of wine. Perhaps all promising in an overlaying kinda manner

 

Oh FFS

Sorry , but really????

 

Medicine is the only field where "You're lazy, crazy, or faking it" means "I don't know"

 

FSS FFS?