Parkinson’s Disease
LSVT BIG Program for PD Patients
LSVT BIG treatment is an innovative, highly effective Parkinson’s-specific treatment developed to increase strength, motor learning, and change brain function. Because it is based on a therapist-patient assessment followed by a one-on-one month-long program, LSVT BIG is designed to focus on each patient’s abilities and reach personal goals.
LSVT BIG Benefits
The intensive, amplitude-focused physical and occupational therapy treatment approach of LSVT BIG for PD patients improves confidence and motor function including
A faster walk and bigger steps
Improved balance
Decreased freezing
Increased trunk rotation
Improved daily living (dressing, writing, stairs, etc.)
What is LSVT BIG program commitment like?
LSVT BIG begins with a 1-2 hour evaluation. We take videos to compare pre- and post-treatment. The improvement in just 4 weeks is significant and always remarkable!
After the assessment, we’ll schedule a series of four successive, daily one-hour sessions that will run for four consecutive weeks. The 16 sessions (at home) are implemented by a certified LSVT BIG clinician who will also outline a daily 15-30 minute “homework” component for reinforcement.
Each session includes 7 key exercises and a functional and gait component. Homework is designed to be easily implemented into the patient’s daily life and reinforce what has been learned in the body and the brain.
What happens after the 4-week LSVT BIG treatment ends?
Patients should set aside 15 -30 minutes per day to “LSVT BIG” for the rest of their lives — a modest amount of time resulting in a lifetime of improved function and confidence.
We also recommend a continuation of physical therapy for reinforcement and improvement. Depending on the patient, this is typically one or more 1-hour sessions per week.
Rediscover your life…in balance
Ready to go BIG with LSVT BIG?
Why LSVT BIG?
LSVT BIG is not just exercise, it is function-focused therapy. Evidence has shown that LSVT BIG is one of the most effective treatment methods for Parkinson’s disease at any phase. Why? The month-long program helps the brain and body recalibrate using the brain’s ability to change (a process called neuroplasticity). The results allow for a regain of “normal” function while decreasing PD symptom progression. Huge gains are measured daily but are evidenced in video comparisons and an improved UPDRS motor score.
Gain confidence and satisfaction in 30 BIG days
LSVT BIG sessions are designed to help patients apply the learned therapy techniques to their everyday lives, increasing independence, safe functioning and overall satisfaction. Key improvements often include walking speed, bigger and safer gaits, movement initiation, balance, and the energy and confidence to do what they want and need to do.