The LSVT BIG program is designed specifically to address movement disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease. Each year, more than 60,000 people are diagnosed with PD in the US.
But what is LSVT BIG and how does it help movement disorders?
LSVT BIG is a proven, evidence based protocol for treating movement disorders. It was created in 2002 and is modeled after Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT). This protocol targets movement disorders by focusing on amplitude of movement and through the concept of Neuroplasticity. EMOTIV states: “Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to adapt to changes in an individual’s environment by forming new neural connections over time”. Through therapy, patients learn the amount of effort that is needed to produce normal movements. This improves gross motor skills and also fine motor skills. This also specifically addresses the effects of Bradykinesia and Hypokinesia, which is often seen in people with PD.
Each “BIG” session is conducted by an LSVT certified physical therapist or occupational therapist. During the initial visit, the therapist evaluates the patient’s movement, balance and how they walk. Clients also go over specific challenges and limitations they face. This targeted approach helps create real world interventions because it focuses on the patient’s challenges in their environment and not just prescribing clinical routine exercises. One example of this is getting in and out of a chair safely.
Sessions are 1 hour in length and are conducted 4 days a week, for 4 weeks with the same therapist. These intensive one on one visits establish better movement patterns, create new nerve impulses and retrain the brain. All of this is the cornerstone to helping the patient regain independence and safety.
During each session, a series of daily maximal exercise is performed. These exercises are both sitting and standing, the focus of which, is movement, rotation, balance and other relevant functions of the human body. The patient is encouraged to use big effort and amplify their movement. This is judged by using a 0-10 scale to determine the amount of effort used for each repetition. They learn how much effort it takes to produce more normal movements.
After the therapy sessions are completed, patients are expected to continue to use, as well as practice the LSVT BIG program. Therapy is designed to give them the tools and feedback they need to regain mobility, strength and balance. The goal is not to need therapy everyday, but to increase safety and independence! Clients also receive periodic “tune up” visits to ensure they are still performing the exercises correctly, as well as address any new concerns.
The LSVT BIG protocol is an effective way to treat movement disorders and help people regain mobility. There are thousands of Certified LSVT BIG therapists in the US ready to help you or someone you know!
If you want to find out more about how our physical therapists and the LSVT BIG model can help you, give us a call 302-304-9729. You can also fill out our Contact form. We would be happy to answer any questions. We cover the areas of New Castle County DE and Delaware County PA. Ask our in-home physical therapists for a one-on-one consultation!
Tags: Exercise, Natural Treatment, Pain Relief, Physical Therapy, Physical therapist
