“BIG” Moves for a BIG Impact: How LSVT BIG Helps Parkinson’s Disease
Feeling smaller, slower, or stiffer than you used to?
If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s Disease, you may have noticed that everyday movements feel harder—walking, reaching for an object, and getting out of a chair.
These changes aren’t just frustrating—they’re a part of how Parkinson’s affects your brain and body.
That’s where LSVT BIG comes into play!
What Is LSVT BIG?
LSVT BIG is a specialized physical and occupational therapy program for people with Parkinson’s Disease.
It’s designed to recalibrate your brain and body to increase:
- Power
· Accuracy
· Dependence
· Cadence with walking
LSVT stands for Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, and while it began as a speech therapy technique (“LSVT LOUD”), it was adapted for physical movement as LSVT BIG.
Why Do Parkinson’s Patients Move Differently?
Parkinson’s affects the way your brain sends signals to your muscles and can cause:
- Slower movement (bradykinesia)
· Smaller steps with walking
· Postural dysfunction
· Difficulty with coordination and dual-task activities
Over time, these symptoms can increase fall risk and limit independence.
LSVT BIG helps reset the brain’s internal “movement scale” so you can move like yourself again.
What Does LSVT BIG Look Like in the Clinic?
At The Spine and Health Center (SHC), our LSVT BIG-certified therapists guide patients through:
- High-amplitude, full-body movements—think big steps, big reaches, and big turns
· Customized routines to improve walking, standing, dressing, and other daily activities
· Intensive 1:1 sessions – 4 times a week for 4 weeks
We can adjust each program based on your goals—whether that’s walking with more confidence, tending to your garden, or keeping up with grandkids.
Who Can Benefit from LSVT BIG?
LSVT BIG is most effective for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease who:
- Are newly diagnosed or in the early to middle stages
· Notice changes in walking and balance
· Want to stay active, independent, and safe
· Are motivated to practice consistently at home
Even those with more significant symptoms can benefit when the program is adapted to their abilities.
Why Start Now?
The earlier you start, the more you preserve function.
LSVT BIG can help to:
- Improve walking speed and stride length
· Increase stability while decreasing fall risk
· Restore confidence with everyday activities
· Enhance quality of life
Let’s Make BIG Changes Together
Our team at SHC is trained in LSVT BIG and passionate about helping people with Parkinson’s regain control of their movement—and their lives.
Want to learn more about LSVT BIG or schedule an evaluation? Contact us today and let’s build a BIG plan for your future.
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