Do I Need LSVT-BIG Therapy?

LSVT-BIG is a type of therapy designed for people living with Parkinson’s disease. While there is no cure for the disorder, there are ways to simultaneously alleviate symptoms and strengthen the body at the same. Here, we’ll look at not just what it is, but how it works and who it works for.

What Is LSVT-BIG?

LSVT stands for Lee Silverman Voice Treatment. It was developed by Dr. Lorraine Ramig and named after a woman living with Parkinson’s. While the original principles were made to help improve people’s speech, it developed into two different types of therapy: one for physical therapy and one for speech therapy. LSVT-BIG refers to the physical exercises that patients can do to improve their quality of life.

How Does LSVT-BIG Work?

LSVT-BIG therapy in Woodstown, NJ focuses on an intense regimen, both in terms of number and length of sessions and physical exercises. Conducted four days in a row for four weeks straight, participants will also have daily homework to complete.

You can think of the therapy exercises as large, even exaggerated motions. The goal of these intense movements is to balance the patient’s perception of the exercises, which can help them move more comfortably.

Ideally, the patient’s brain will make new connections in the brain that allow for better motor function. Once you’re done, you may notice that both large and small movements to be easier to handle, whether that’s getting out of bed, buttoning up your shirt, or grabbing a dish from the cabinet.

Is LSVT-BIG Right for Me?

LSVT-BIG is made for people with Parkinson’s, though it may be able to help people who face an array of mobility challenges. If you want to learn more about the therapy, including the success rates, the right physical therapist in Woodstown, NJ can help you learn more about the process.

Like every physical therapy program, the results work best when you tailor the program to your body’s needs. If you’re looking for a specialist, the staff at Woodstown Physical Therapy is here to discuss your options and either get you started on LSVT-BIG or match you up to a more effective solution.