LSVT BIG is a groundbreaking program specifically designed to empower individuals with Parkinson’s disease to move and function more effectively, contributing significantly to their overall behavioral health and wellness. Offered within the Physical Therapy and Specialty Center at Primary Care Partners, this rehabilitation program is rooted in rigorous research and dedicated to enhancing movement and balance for a better quality of life.
Understanding the Impact of Movement on Wellness
Parkinson’s disease can present numerous challenges, with movement difficulties often being a central concern. These physical limitations can significantly impact not only daily activities but also emotional and mental well-being. Recognizing this interconnectedness, LSVT BIG addresses the physical aspects of Parkinson’s, thereby fostering improvements in behavioral health and overall wellness. By focusing on amplitude-based exercises, the program helps patients regain confidence and independence in their movements, which has a positive ripple effect on their emotional state and engagement with life.
The Science Behind LSVT BIG
Developed and refined over two decades with robust funding from the National Institute of Health, LSVT programs are built on a strong scientific foundation. LSVT BIG specifically focuses on translating “bigger movements” into practical, everyday actions. Extensive research has documented the program’s success in enhancing motor function. Participants have demonstrated significant improvements, including:
- Increased walking speed with larger steps
- Enhanced balance and stability
- Greater trunk rotation and flexibility
These tangible physical improvements are directly linked to an individual’s sense of well-being and ability to participate in daily life, reinforcing the role of LSVT BIG as a partner in behavioral health and wellness.
What to Expect During the LSVT BIG Program
Participating in LSVT BIG requires commitment and active engagement. Here’s what you can anticipate:
- Daily Exercise Commitment: Consistent practice is key to achieving the best outcomes.
- Intensive, Tailored Exercises: The program involves exercises that are intense yet personalized to meet your specific needs and abilities.
- Continuous Therapist Feedback: A certified LSVT BIG therapist will provide ongoing feedback to refine your movements and ensure you are performing exercises correctly and effectively. This expert guidance is crucial for maximizing improvement and building confidence.
- Progressive Improvement: By the program’s conclusion, you can expect to experience noticeable improvements in balance, mobility, and overall functional abilities, contributing to a greater sense of physical and emotional well-being.
Sustaining Progress Beyond the Program
LSVT BIG is not just a short-term treatment; it’s an approach to movement that promotes long-term wellness. To support continued progress after the initial program, several options are available:
- LSVT BIG FOR LIFE: Group exercise classes provide a supportive environment to continue practicing exercises under the guidance of a trained LSVT Clinician. This fosters ongoing improvement and community support, both vital for sustained behavioral health and wellness.
- LSVT BIG HOMEWORK HELPER: A home-based DVD program allows you to maintain your exercise routine independently, ensuring consistent practice and reinforcing the benefits of the program in your daily life.
Regular follow-up assessments with your physical therapist are also recommended to monitor progress and fine-tune your exercise plan as needed, ensuring continued partnership in your journey towards improved wellness.
Program Structure and Key Components
The LSVT BIG program is structured to deliver maximum benefit within a focused timeframe:
- Four-Week Program: The program spans four weeks, with four one-hour sessions each week, providing an intensive yet manageable schedule.
- Evidence-Based Protocol: The program adheres to a standardized, evidence-based protocol, ensuring consistent and effective treatment delivery.
- High-Intensity, One-on-One Sessions: Sessions are high-intensity and conducted individually, allowing for personalized feedback and tailored adjustments.
- Daily Homework Practice: Daily homework assignments are integral to reinforcing learned movements and accelerating progress.
Understanding the Exercises
Each LSVT BIG treatment session incorporates seven core daily exercises along with functional component tasks. These exercises are characterized by:
- Big Movements: Emphasizing large amplitude movements to retrain motor control.
- Sustained Holds: Incorporating sustained postures to improve strength and stability.
- High Repetitions: Performing exercises with high repetitions to promote motor learning and endurance.
While the exercises are designed to be performed with significant effort, your therapist will modify them to match your current abilities, ensuring a safe and effective program tailored to your individual needs.
Optimal Timing for Starting Treatment
While LSVT BIG can be beneficial at any stage of Parkinson’s disease, patients often experience the most significant improvements when starting treatment before severe symptoms become pronounced. However, it’s never too late to begin. Initiating treatment earlier can facilitate movement restoration and lead to more successful outcomes, proactively supporting both physical and behavioral wellness.
Insurance Considerations
Given the program’s intensity and frequency, understanding your insurance coverage is important. Our office staff is available to assist you with pre-authorization and visit tracking, helping you navigate insurance processes and avoid unexpected costs, making the path to improved wellness as smooth as possible.
Meet Our Certified Clinician
Laurel Sampson, MPT is a trained and certified LSVT BIG clinician at our center. Laurel is dedicated to providing expert care and support to individuals with Parkinson’s disease, partnering with them to achieve their movement and wellness goals.
For further details about LSVT BIG, please visit www.LSVTGlobal.com.
