Parkinson’s disease causes movements to become smaller and slower. Typical symptoms include tremors/shaking, rigidity, and slowness of movement. Parkinson’s also affects balance, coordination, and posture. These changes lower your confidence, speed, and safety with common daily tasks.
LSVT BIG is a physical therapy program that benefits patients with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. LSVT BIG is an exercise program that improves motor function in persons with Parkinson’s. The program utilizes large-amplitude movements, done at high intensity, and incorporates sensory and internal cues to optimize movement.
Following completion of the LSVT BIG program, you will notice faster walking speeds with bigger steps, improved balance, better movement in your torso, and a reduction in fall risk.
Highlights of the LSVT BIG Exercise Program
Certified clinicians supervise the LSVT BIG program. It includes 16 1-hour sessions, 4 consecutive days a week for 4 weeks. The sessions involve maximal daily exercises prescribed to attack symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Training in functional skills is personalized to your goals.
The program highlights things you want to improve on. This could be anything from handwriting to hiking. The program focuses on utilizing special exercises to change your brain. When the exercise program is dosed correctly intensive training gives you “BIG” results that continue to last.
Your Improvements Continue After Completing the Program
After LSVT BIG treatment is complete ongoing performance of the maximal daily exercises continues to allow ongoing progress. Anyone who completes the program may return for “tune-ups” as necessary. “Tune-ups” allow your therapist to address concerns and
reassess previous tests to ensure ongoing advancements. Your therapist may also identify additional areas requiring improvement.
Group exercise classes are also encouraged to promote ongoing movement. Engage in fitness activities you enjoy, like boxing, dancing, or hiking. The LSVT website and social media can also be used for support and motivation.
Parkinson’s: How to Start Your LSVT Big Exercise Program
It is time to learn how to take control of your movement. It is never too late to improve function and it is never too early to start.
To learn more about the LSVT BIG program, please do not hesitate to reach out via phone or email. Dr. Haley Stack and Dr. William Ballinger are certified clinicians. Anyone may schedule with Haley and/or William at the BSR Physical Therapy Manahawkin location – (609)-549-5015.
You can also find a certified clinician on the LSVT Global website under Find LSVT Clinicians.
