LSVT BIG® is a research-based exercise approach developed from principles of the effective Parkinson’s specific speech treatment LSVT LOUD.
The LSVT Programs have been developed and scientifically researched over the past 20 years with funding from the National Institutes of Health.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement and coordination. It occurs when nerve cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra become damaged or die, leading to a drop in dopamine – a chemical responsible for smooth, coordinated muscle movements. This results in symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slow movements, and balance difficulties.
Other signs include reduced arm swing during walking, shuffling steps, difficulty starting or stopping movement, and diminished facial expressions. Parkinson’s can also affect speech, causing softer or slurred speech, and may lead to cognitive and mood changes over time.
While the exact cause is unknown, genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Although there is no cure, treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and specific programs like LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease vary from person to person but tend to progress gradually over time. The most recognizable symptoms are motor-related, such as tremors, which often begin in one hand or finger while at rest. These tremors may become more noticeable as the condition progresses. Another common symptom is bradykinesia, or slowed movement, which can make everyday tasks like walking, standing, or buttoning clothing increasingly challenging. Muscle rigidity, or stiffness, is also typical and may cause discomfort or restrict range of motion.
Non-motor symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. These include changes in speech, such as softer or slurred speech, and reduced facial expression. Many individuals experience balance problems, making them prone to falls. Additionally, non-motor symptoms like sleep disturbances, mood changes, cognitive impairment, and constipation are common as the disease advances.
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What Is Our Approach To Treating Parkinson’s Disease?
At Savoy Therapy, we take a comprehensive approach to managing Parkinson’s through a specific treatment protocol called LSVT. This evidence-based program includes two components:
- LSVT BIG: This therapy focuses on improving large, exaggerated movements, which are essential for daily activities like standing, sitting, and walking. By practicing these larger movements, individuals can counteract the tendency toward smaller, slower movements caused by Parkinson’s, helping them regain confidence and independence.
- LSVT LOUD: This therapy, conducted by a speech therapist, addresses the common challenges Parkinson’s patients face with speech. It is designed to improve speech clarity, volume, and expression, enabling better communication with others and reducing feelings of isolation.
These therapies are highly individualized and aim to address both the physical and emotional challenges of living with Parkinson’s. By focusing on mobility, speech, and quality of life, our approach helps individuals maintain independence and participate in the activities they love for as long as possible, despite the challenges of this progressive disease.
Improvements Include:
- Faster walking with bigger steps
- Improved balance
- Increased trunk rotation
LSVT BIG® = BIG Exercise!
Research suggests that you should NOT wait until you begin to experience disability, impaired function or loss of balance to start exercise-based physical therapy.
LSVT BIG® techniques train individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological conditions to use bigger movements anywhere, anytime in daily living. This empowers individuals by teaching them they have to keep moving and stay active.
LSVT BIG® is a standardized treatment protocol and is delivered by our LSVT BIG® certified physical therapists.
LSVT BIG® treatment consists of:
- 16 sessions: 4 consecutive days a week for 4 weeks
- Individual 1 hours sessions
- Daily homework practice
- Daily carry-over exercises
LSVT BIG® treatment outcomes include:
- It trains a single target of amplitude (bigger movements)
- It drives intensive and high-effort practice
- It teaches the amount of effort required to produce normal movements
- It translates bigger movements into real-world, everyday activities
- It empowers people with PD with their potential to improve!
LSVT BIG® will help you establish a LIFELONG HABIT of BIG PRACTICE!
LSVT BIG® will teach you how to avoid inactivity and keep your movements ALIVE during everyday activities. It will help you participate fully and improve the quality of your life.
Need To Know More About Cost and Availability?
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Download Our FREE Report
Take control of Parkinson’s with our free Parkinson’s disease report!
This valuable resource is packed with expert advice on managing symptoms, improving mobility, and maintaining independence. Whether you or a loved one has been recently diagnosed or has been living with Parkinson’s for years, this report offers practical strategies to enhance your quality of life.
Learn about proven therapies like LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD, and discover how physical therapy can make a difference.
Don’t let Parkinson’s define your future – download your free report today and take the first step toward better health and confidence.