Thanks to funding from the National Institutes of Health, and approximately
20 years of research, there is an effective exercise approach available
that provides an opportunity for improvement of function for patients
with Parkinson’s Disease. This research-based exercise approach
is called LSVT BIG. Improvements seen after working in the LSVT BIG program
include, but are not limited to: walking faster with bigger steps, improved
balance, and increased trunk rotation.
The LSVT BIG protocol utilizes large arcs of motion (BIG movements), and
requires high effort exercise (70% intensity with all movements). This
combination teaches participants the amount of effort required to produce
normal-sized movement and speed for specific exercise movements. This
empowers participants to take a bigger movement pattern and apply it to
activities used every day. As a result, a lifelong habit of BIG MOVEMENTS
is formed that will help keep participants moving and will empower them
with the potential to improve their quality of life.
The LSVT BIG program consist of 16 exercise sessions, which are 1 hour
in length. These sessions are best utilized 4 days a week for 4 weeks.
The program is individualized to each participant’s needs, which
includes a standardized program of 7 basic exercises, as well as the development
of a customized daily home exercise program. The program is designed to
address the specifics of each individual’s movement difficulties
and activity challenges that often accompany Parkinson’s disease.
If you would like to fight back against Parkinson’s Disease, ask
your primary care physician to refer you to the Baxter Regional Medical
Center’s outpatient Physical Therapy Department.
Call us at
(870) 508-1560 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
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