The LSVT BIG program is a holistic treatment approach that addresses not only movement patterns but also non-motor symptoms including emotional changes and cognitive changes that one develops with a neurological condition.
LSVT BIG first started as a specific protocol for treatment of patients with Parkinson’s. As more research has become available, the studies show that the LSVT BIG program is beneficial for any population who wants to have more confidence with movement patterns. It helps people “recalibrate” and recognize when their movements are getting smaller or slower than they think.
How Does LSVT BIG Work?
The program is delivered by a LSVT BIG certified clinician in a one-on-one session. Sessions are tailored to each person’s own abilities and goals so that they work toward achieving results that are the most meaningful to them. The program consists of 4 days of intensive exercises per week for a period of 4- weeks – 16 total sessions. During these sessions, patients are taught to exaggerate movements to combat the side effects of Parkinson’s that inhibit gate mechanics and other movements. The exercises are introduced as high energy and high amplitude to prevent further progression of the disease. After the program is completed, another evaluation will be conducted to compare the progression of the patient’s capabilities. Current results of the LVST BIG program show stronger walking movements and less risk of falling among patients.
Mallory Rodriguez, PT, DPT, OTR/L at Spooner Fountain Hills has been using the LSVT BIG program for general motor deficits, fall risk population, and with patients with Parkinson’s. She says, “It’s amazing what this program can do to build confidence and strength within our patients. I tell my patients that the first two weeks of the program will be challenging but by week four they won’t want to stop! And the program does not have to stop for them! We provide resources to patients that allow them to succeed and continue progression with an at home program. We also schedule several touch points with each patient through the year. We are always available to our patients to help them succeed.”
Judy Byerley, a patient at the Spooner Fountain Hills clinic was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and just started the LSVT BIG program. After completing her first week with Mallory, she said, “I have to say that the program is going very well so far. It has started to give me better stability with walking, improving my hand writing, and increasing my voice quality. So far, I have noticed my slurring of speech has decreased and I am aware of safety techniques when I transition from sitting to standing or walk around. I feel like I have more energy and I am moving better around the house. I have new friends at Spooner now who are my physical therapists and I enjoy laughing and having a great time with them while working hard on my goals.”
Mallory adds, “One of the most important parts of neuro rehab is having a great team. At Spooner Fountain Hills, I have Abbey, Linda, Lynda, and Jackie who are all part of my neuro crew. When preparing for a session, we look at each exercise and bounce ideas of each other to ensure that patients are progressing appropriately, are challenged on a neuro level and are also having fun along the way.”
Patients are encouraged to seek physical therapy as soon as they are aware of the disease and before the symptoms being occurring. The first signs are normally decreased arm swing, loss of balance, shuffling feet, smaller handwriting or lower vocal volume. If a patient has further progression of symptoms, more options are available at Spooner Physical Therapy for the patient to receive physical therapy designed specifically to address their symptoms and help them achieve their goals.
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease? Are you interested in learning more about the LSVT BIG program? We’re here to help and be there every step of the way!
Learn more about Neurological Rehabilitation at Spooner Physical Therapy. Ready to schedule an appointment? Click here to schedule an appointment or complimentary movement screen with a Spooner physical therapist at one of our locations throughout the valley.