Parkinson’s Disease is a chronic, progressive degenerative disorder of the nervous system.  It causes a huge reduction in the amount of cells in the brain that produce the chemical Dopamine.  Without enough Dopamine, movement becomes smaller in size, muscles become rigid, the voice becomes quieter, and mental health and cognitive function can become impaired.  While this sounds bleak, it is possible to slow the progression of the effects of Parkinson’s Disease, maintain, and even gain function, better balance and independence.  

You are probably wondering, “How can someone improve when they have Parkson’s Disease?”  The answer is seven letters long.  LSVT-BIG.  LSVT stands for Lee Silverman Voice Therapy, and BIG represents the physical, whole body movements of the program.  What began as a speech therapy technique to improve the volume and quality of speech for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), has now evolved into a research-based, scientifically proven effective program for addressing functional movement impairments for people with PD.

LSVT-BIG uses the concept of “large amplitude” movement to recalibrate how individuals with PD move.  Instead of the small, shuffling movements we expect to see in someone with PD, we instead teach them to move with as big of a movement as they can using specific therapist driven interventions to shape and refine those movements.  The program begins with a core group of exercises, transfers, and gait.  It is then customized to each individual’s needs to address functional tasks that are challenging for that person.  Each person in LSVT-BIG also receives a comprehensive daily exercise program that is designed to reinforce the large amplitude movement patterns being addressed in each treatment session.

Many people with PD are intimidated by the demand of the LSVT-BIG program.  The program is designed to be completed with your therapist 4 days per week for one month (four weeks).  During the LSVT-BIG program, you will learn exercises that should be completed daily.  You will also work on skills that are important to you and your daily function.  Upon completion of the program, patients are strongly encouraged to continue with their daily exercise program and become involved in continued group fitness activities.  An LSVT-Big “tune up” is always recommended 6 months after completion of the program.  A “tune-up” is a check in with only one week of appointments.  It is designed to update your home exercise program and make sure that you are performing your current exercises properly.

LSVT-BIG has extensive research to back its effectiveness.  Clinically, we see the benefits of LSVT-BIG with out patients.  Those benefits include:

• Increased movement during the day which helps increase energy, independence and fitness levels
• Increased balance and safety with movement
• Improved quality of movement
• Improved quality of life
• Improved mood and sleep
• Increased control over a chronic illness

If you or someone you know is living with Parkinson’s Disease, or a similar neurological disorder, LSVT-BIG might be a perfect option for you.  We have two LSVT-BIG certified clinicians a the Smith Balance + Concussion Center ready to help you!