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LSVT Big
At Voltex Physical Therapy, we are proud to offer LSVT BIG therapy, a highly effective and evidence-based program tailored to improve movement and quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other neurological conditions. This intensive program is designed to empower patients, helping them regain control of their movements and navigate life with reduced symptoms and greater confidence.
What Is LSVT BIG Therapy?
LSVT BIG (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment – BIG) was originally developed to address speech challenges in individuals with Parkinson’s through the “Loud” program. It has since evolved to target motor symptoms like hypokinesia (reduced movement) and bradykinesia (slowness of movement) through large-amplitude movements. Named after Mrs. Lee Silverman, a Parkinson’s patient, this therapy is rooted in the principles of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections.
This program focuses on helping patients “recalibrate” their perception of movement, ensuring that they recognize and feel comfortable with larger, more confident motions. It also addresses the emotional and cognitive challenges associated with PD, offering a holistic approach to care.
How Is LSVT BIG Different From Traditional Physical Therapy?
Unlike traditional physical therapy, LSVT BIG is designed specifically for the unique challenges of Parkinson’s disease. Its research-based treatment protocols are focused on:
- Motor symptoms: Improving movement size, speed, and efficiency.
- Sensory symptoms: Helping patients identify and overcome movement deficits.
- Non-motor symptoms: Addressing emotional and cognitive changes to support overall well-being.
This high-intensity, high-effort therapy is structured to induce lasting changes in how patients move and live, giving them the tools to transfer what they learn in therapy to everyday activities like walking, dressing, and eating.
Conditions Treated with Dry Needling
Dry needling effectively addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurophysiological dysfuctions from mechanical stress, direct trauma, repetitive overuse, faulty movement patterns, and others like:
- Scar tissue, contractures, muscle strains causing neck, jaw, back, and shoulder pain
- Tendon dysfuction causing arm pain (e.g., tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Acute or chronic headaches (including migraines and tension-type headaches)
- Acute or chronic low back pain with or without radiating symptoms (e.g., sciatica, hamstring strains)
- Overtraining, burnout related to athletic demands, muscle tension and muscle deficiency.
Benefits of LSVT BIG Therapy
Scientific research has shown that LSVT BIG therapy leads to significant improvements for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, including:
- Faster, more confident walking with larger strides.
- Enhanced balance and trunk rotation for stability.
- Increased independence in daily tasks such as eating, dressing, and writing.
- Improved overall quality of life and sense of empowerment.
What Does an LSVT BIG Program Look Like?
LSVT BIG therapy is an intensive program consisting of:
- 16 sessions over four weeks: Four 60-minute sessions per week for four weeks.
- Daily homework: Patients are encouraged to practice exercises outside of sessions to reinforce progress.
- Adaptable exercises: Movements are tailored to each patient’s functional level and can be performed standing, seated, or lying down to ensure safety and success.
This structured, high-frequency approach aligns with the principles of motor learning and neuroplasticity, maximizing outcomes and improving long-term motor function.
Who Can Benefit From LSVT BIG?
While LSVT BIG is most effective in the early to middle stages of Parkinson’s, it can benefit individuals at any stage of the condition. Early intervention allows patients to address symptoms before they significantly impact daily life. However, even those with advanced Parkinson’s can experience meaningful improvements.
If you or a loved one is struggling with reduced mobility, slowed movements, or difficulty with everyday activities, LSVT BIG may be the right choice.
Why Choose Voltex Physical Therapy for LSVT BIG?
At Voltex Physical Therapy, our Doctors of Physical Therapy are certified in LSVT BIG and dedicated to providing individualized care for each patient. We create a welcoming and supportive environment, empowering you to reach your goals and improve your quality of life.
Our approach ensures that every patient receives:
- A personalized treatment plan based on their unique needs and abilities.
- Compassionate guidance and support throughout the therapy process.
- The tools and confidence to transfer improvements from therapy to real-life activities.
Take the First Step Toward Better Movement
It’s never too early—or too late—to start your LSVT BIG journey. Whether you’re just beginning to notice symptoms or have been living with Parkinson’s for years, this therapy can help you reclaim your independence and enhance your daily life.
Contact Voltex Physical Therapy today (512) 200-4067 to schedule your LSVT BIG evaluation and start moving BIG!