LSVT BIG® Parkinson’s Therapy

Parkinson’s disease can gradually change the way the body moves. Movements may feel smaller, slower, and less automatic. Activities like walking, standing up from a chair, turning, dressing, or reaching can become more difficult over time.

At ACCESS PT, LSVT BIG® Parkinson’s therapy is a specialized, evidence-based physical therapy program designed to help individuals with Parkinson’s disease improve movement, confidence, and independence through intentional, large-amplitude motion.

What Is LSVT BIG®?

LSVT BIG® (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment BIG) is a research-supported therapy approach developed specifically to address the movement challenges associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s can affect how the brain sends signals to the muscles, often resulting in:

• Shorter steps
• Reduced arm swing
• Slower movements
• Increased stiffness
• Balance challenges
• Smaller overall movement patterns

Many individuals may not realize their movements have become smaller. LSVT BIG® works to “recalibrate” this internal perception by training the body to move with greater size and intention, helping larger movements feel natural again.

Therapy is delivered by professionals specially trained and certified in the LSVT BIG® method.

Understanding the Approach

Unlike traditional strengthening programs that focus on individual muscles, LSVT BIG® emphasizes whole-body, functional movement patterns.

The program targets movements that directly relate to daily activities such as:

• Walking
• Turning
• Sitting and standing
• Reaching
• Stepping
• Balance reactions

Through consistent, high-effort practice, the brain and body are retrained to produce bigger, more efficient movements that carry over into daily life.

Your Comprehensive Evaluation

Your program begins with a detailed evaluation by an ACCESS PT therapist certified in LSVT BIG®.

During your visit, we will:

• Review your medical history
• Discuss current symptoms and challenges
• Identify activities that feel most limiting
• Assess posture, balance, and gait
• Evaluate strength, coordination, and flexibility
• Observe functional tasks such as walking and transfers

This evaluation allows us to create a personalized plan aligned with your goals, abilities, and lifestyle.

Structured, Evidence-Based Treatment Program

LSVT BIG® follows a structured and intensive model designed to drive meaningful change.

• The standard program typically includes:
• Four sessions per week
• Approximately one hour per session
• Four consecutive weeks

Sessions focus on:

• Large-amplitude walking and stepping
• Functional sit-to-stand and reaching tasks
• Dynamic balance and postural control
• Strength and endurance exercises related to daily movement

High repetition and focused effort are essential components of the program, helping reinforce new movement patterns and improve carryover outside the clinic.

Education & Home Practice

Education is a key part of the LSVT BIG® program. Your Physical Therapist will help you understand:

• How Parkinson’s affects movement
• Why larger movements are necessary
• How to apply “BIG” movements at home and in the community

A structured daily home practice program supports progress between sessions and encourages long-term success.

Supporting Mobility & Quality of Life

The goal of LSVT BIG® Parkinson’s therapy is to help you:

• Walk with greater confidence
• Improve posture and balance
• Increase movement speed and coordination
• Maintain independence
• Stay active in the activities you enjoy

Many individuals experience noticeable improvements in movement quality and overall function.

Who Can Benefit?

LSVT BIG® is appropriate for individuals with Parkinson’s disease at various stages who are experiencing:

• Changes in movement size or speed
• Balance challenges
• Decreased coordination
• Difficulty with daily activities

Early intervention can be especially beneficial, but individuals at multiple stages may benefit from participation.

Take the Next Step

If Parkinson’s-related movement changes are affecting your daily life, ACCESS PT's LSVT BIG® Parkinson’s therapy offers focused, compassionate, evidence-based care.

Our certified therapists are committed to helping you move with greater strength, confidence, and independence.

Schedule your evaluation today.