9 Brain Disorders That Completely Warp Your Reality

3. Blocq's Disease: Always On The Verge Of Falling

Blocq's disease is an odd one. Also known as Astasia-Abasia, patients often appear to be constantly on the verge of falling over. They tend to stumble about as though drunk and will sometimes weave about when they try to walk, but the weirdest thing is that then never seem to fall over.

When lying down, sufferers of Blocq's disease retain all of their motor function and strength in their legs, and the phenomenon only come about when they try to stand or walk. Patients rarely seem to actually fall down in a situation that would hurt them, but if they see a soft landing or somebody who will catch them, they will.

It is thought that it is what is known as a "conversion reaction". It is not caused by a physical issue, but is rather a psychosomatic response to extreme stress or anxiety. This doesn't mean that the patient is "putting it on" - they genuinely experience their symptoms - but the cause is psychological rather than physical.