Health 360

    Conversion Disorder: Jessie's Story

    Conversion Disorder: Jessie's Story

    Jessies Story

     

    When the pain became more severe that evening, her mother took her to InstaCare, but X-rays revealed nothing.

    The following morning Jessie was experiencing shooting pains down both legs. Doctors at Intermountain Pediatrics in Logan conducted an MRI, but still couldn’t pinpoint a cause. Within days, Jessie lost all feeling and movement in her legs. On the doctor’s recommendation, Jessie’s mother took her to Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, where after several days of testing, the staff returned a diagnosis: Jessie was suffering from conversion disorder.

    Conversion disorder is a rare disorder of the brain in which a psychological crisis converts into a physical problem. It can result in paralysis or blindness, among other symptoms. Experts say symptoms can vary in severity, and come and go or be persistent.

    “Jessie had so much stress and anxiety that she was holding inside, that it forced her to basically take a break,” said her mother, Sally Stocker.

    Sally, the Regional Marketing Manager for Intermountain Clinics in Cache and Box Elder counties, immediately set up treatment for Jessie with Logan Regional Pediatric Rehabilitation. Jessie began working with physical therapist Shaun Dahle to recapture her strength and motor skills.

    It took about a month for Jessie to progress to what she called “zombie walking,” but not long after that the vivacious teenager was able to run, and then to jump. Shaun credited her recovery in part to her positive attitude.

    “Every session, she couldn’t wait to show us what she had accomplished,” he said.

    About one month after the incident, Jessie was able to perform cartwheels.

    “It was amazing to see her process,” Sally said. “Now she has no issues at all.”

    For more on Jessie’s story, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIzPnCIqxng.