How Physical Therapy Can Help Parkinson's Disease Patients
Any type of
new medical diagnosis can be scary and confusing. In the fall of 2016, my
grandfather began seeking answers for his slower movements and inability to
participate in activities he used to love, such as chasing after all his
grandchildren. After many doctor’s visits, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s
Disease. It was his difficulty coming to terms with the diagnosis which led me
to search for what could best improve his symptoms and quality of life! After
some research, I came across LSVT and knew that I needed to become certified
and use my grandfather as my first test subject. As soon as I saw the positive
results both physically and emotionally in my grandfather, I wanted to make
sure I achieved those same results with all my patients.
What is LSVT BIG?
LSVT stands
for “Lee Silverman Voice Treatment” and was developed in 1987 by Dr. Lorraine
Ramig. She set out to improve Mrs. Silverman’s voice production by creating a
standardized intervention that was later adapted from speech therapy into
physical therapy. It incorporates all types of exercises that target key motor
symptoms by using repetition that can drive changes in a person’s movement.
This re-training of movement can strengthen weaker connections in the brain
that are a result of changes due to the disease. The main goal of LSVT BIG is
to “re-calibrate” how a patient perceives their motions by training them to
recognize the amount of effort required to increase the amplitude of their
mobility. It also helps with slower and smaller movements, impaired balance and
coordination, forward leaning posture, and difficulties with activities of
daily life.
How is it different than traditional PT?
This therapy
is different than traditional PT because it is delivered specifically by an
LSVT Certified Clinician. Since it is a
standardized program, backed by research, it is scheduled for 4 times a week
for 4 weeks. It is also one-on-one with a physical therapist for 60 minutes so that
constant feedback and cues can be given to the patient. The program also
incorporates specific tasks to each patient that are important to them, or are
currently difficult to them, that would be beneficial to practice daily.
When should I start?
The earlier
the better! The best time to begin this program is in the early to middle
stages of diagnosis. However, it is beneficial for all stages of Parkinson’s
Disease and can be adapted to almost all levels of mobility. If you are unsure
if this program is right for you or your loved one, please contact us and set
up a consultation.
If you have questions or if you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and would like to schedule an appointment with our LSVT BIG Certified Therapist Alex Taratuski, PT DPT call 215-855-1160 today!
