Parkinson’s Disease is a brain disorder in which nerve cells (neurons) in a part of the brain that controls movement become impaired and/or die. These neurons are responsible for producing dopamine, a chemical that carries messages between nerve cells. As the cells become impaired or die, they produce less dopamine, which leads to the movement problems that characterize Parkinson’s Disease. Some of these movement problems include:
- Slower or smaller movements than intended/perceived
- Tremors
- Difficulty with walking, posture, and balance
- Freezing episodes – temporary inability to move
What is LSVT BIG?
LSVT BIG is a program provided by LSVT BIG Certified Physical Therapists designed to improve the functional mobility of those individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. The program successfully helps those patients struggling with everyday tasks such as dressing, grooming/bathing, walking, bed mobility, eating, and getting up out of a sofa or chair by using a treatment approach that has been carefully designed, researched and replicated.
LSVT BIG is an intensive program that emphasizes effort and amplitude of movements to overcome symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease. Patients often experience a disconnect between their perception of the size or speed of their movements and the actual size and speed of their movements. LSVT BIG is designed to correct this misperception by reteaching patients how normal movements feel.
What should I expect in the program?
An LSVT BIG certified physical therapist will be able to provide a thorough evaluation to determine patient preparedness for the program and to work with the patient to determine what functional goals to target. The program is 4x per week for 4 weeks with an emphasis on “BIG” movements to help patients reach their goals of maximal functional mobility.
ACCESS PT offers LSVT BIG in many locations throughout Connecticut, North Carolina, New York, and Pennsylvania. Give us a call today, we’d love to help!
