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LSVT BIG is a program designed to train individuals with Parkinson’s disease to use their body more optimally. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease often progress to more slower and smaller movements, leading to increased difficulties with activities of daily living. Difficulties can include walking, getting dressed, getting in and out of cars and maintaining balance while performing simple to complex tasks.

Trained professionals are able to teach individuals how to produce bigger motions, with greater amplitude, to eventually normalize movements for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. LSVT BIG treatment is aimed at helping individuals improve function in all aspects of daily living, improve quality of life, and to continue being as independent as possible throughout their disease progression

LSVT-BIG Therapy

LSVT-BIG is an innovative physical/occupational therapy program that helps to increase strength, motor learning, and changes in brain function in individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological conditions including stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and Down Syndrome. Each treatment focuses on the production of large amplitude whole-body functional movements.

The method was developed following rigorous research funded by the National Institutes of Health. More than 20 years’ worth of research documents showed improved ratings on motor function tests following treatment for Parkinson’s Disease patients.

These improvements include:

• Faster walking with bigger steps
• Improved balance
• Increased trunk rotation

LSVT-BIG therapy includes:

• 16 sessions: four consecutive days a week for four weeks
• Individual one-hour sessions
• Daily homework practice
• Daily carryover exercises

Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 6.3 million people worldwide. Many of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease involve motor control, which is the ability to control your muscles and movement. As Parkinson’s disease progresses, it becomes increasingly disabling, making daily activities like bathing or dressing difficult or impossible. LSVT-BIG can teach those living with Parkinson’s Disease how to avoid inactivity and ease movement while being engaged in everyday activities. – Leading to an improved quality of life.