Parkinson’s LSVT BIG Program
LSVT BIG Program
LSVT BIG a specialized skilled treatment program led by Certified Clinicians for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological conditions. The aim of LSVT BIG is to improve various motor skills. The program can be customized to the specific needs and goals of each patient.
What exactly is LSVT BIG?
LSVT stands for “Lee Silverman Voice Treatment” and has two branches that come off of it – “BIG” and “LOUD.” LSVT LOUD is provided by a speech therapists. LSVT BIG is provided by a Doctor of Physical Therapy at FYZICAL.
Research on LSVT BIG has documented improved mobility following treatment in:
- Faster walking with bigger steps
- Improved balance and reduced risk of falling
- Increased trunk rotation
- Improvements in activities of daily living such as bed mobility
- Improved UPDRS Motor Score
- Improved multi-tasking with walking
LSVT BIG is a standardized treatment protocol that is customized to the unique goals of each individual. LSVT BIG can be adapted or progressed to meet each patient’s needs across a range of disease severity and impairments. The goal of LSVT BIG is to restore normal movement patterns in everyday activities.
While this is a treatment that is primarily done with patients with Parkinson's Disease, it can be used to treat other neurological conditions, as well. It is based on the principle of neuroplasticity, meaning that nervous system is capable of change in response to signals – essentially, the brain is capable of learning and changing. LSVT BIG uses a large amplitude training (also known as Be BIG!) in order to elicit improved and healthy movement as a new normal for patients.
These treatments are typically administered in 16 individual sessions over the course of one month, which equals out to four 60-minute sessions per week. This intensive mode of administration is consistent with theories of motor learning and skill acquisition, as well as the principle of neuroplasticity. Because of this, intensive treatments are critical in attaining optimal results.
However, LSVT BIG treatments not only stimulate the motor system – they also incorporate sensory awareness training, in order to help patients with Parkinson’s Disease or other neurological conditions recognize when their movements are too small. This helps with the perception that bigger movements are within normal limits, and it also increases the level of comfort with new bigger, faster, and safer movements when walking, dressing, or eating.
How do I know if I’m eligible for LSVT BIG treatments?
Your eligibility for LSVT BIG treatments will be determined by one of our LSVT BIG certified Physical Therapists during your initial Physical Therapy evaluation. During this evaluation, the Physical Therapist will assess your movements and examine both your gross and fine motor skills and gait.
If you would like to learn more about our LSVT program, call our office and speak with a Client Care Specialist today.