Living Large with Parkinson's: An Occupational Therapist's Guide to LSVT BIG
LSVT BIG! Changed My Life
When I started working with INSPIRE, I was unable to walk more than a couple of steps, and my wife was pushing me in a wheelchair. Within a few sessions, I was using my walker instead of the wheelchair, and one of my main concerns was these episodes of freezing where I was unable to move. Dr. Adams addressed my goals immediately and together we’ve added many tools to use to help with the freezing. Today, I am able to walk quite a distance without stopping. Working with a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in Parkinson’s disease is life-changing. I am now able to easily go to baseball games, play with my grandkids, go out to dinner with confidence, and travel with my wife thanks to INSPIRE and the LSVT BIG program!
- Robert; graduate of LSVT BIG program (74)
Exaggerated Movements with Maximum Effort
Parkinson's disease can make daily tasks feel overwhelming. Occupational therapists (OTs) offer a powerful tool to help you regain independence: LSVT BIG. This program uses the concept of exaggerated movements with maximum effort to retrain your brain for improved function in everyday activities.
What is LSVT BIG?
While LSVT BIG originated for voice therapy, its core principle translates brilliantly to occupational therapy. We'll guide you through practicing bigger movements – reaching higher, opening doors wider – to improve your ability to perform daily tasks.
How Does an OT Use LSVT BIG?
An OT certified in LSVT BIG will develop a personalized program focused on your specific needs and goals. Here's what you can expect:
Intensive Training: Similar to physical therapy, LSVT BIG in OT involves frequent sessions, often four times a week for several weeks. This concentrated approach helps to solidify new movement patterns.
Focus on Daily Activities: We'll integrate LSVT BIG principles into everyday tasks like dressing, bathing, cooking, and self-care. The goal is to make these activities more manageable and empower you to perform them with greater ease and confidence.
Adapting Your Environment: An OT can assess your home environment and suggest modifications to make daily activities even easier and safer.
Benefits of LSVT BIG for Parkinson's
Studies have shown that LSVT BIG in occupational therapy can significantly improve:
Functional Independence: The ability to perform daily tasks without assistance, increasing your overall well-being.
Reduced Effort: Tasks that were once demanding become more manageable with improved movement patterns.
Confidence and Self-Esteem: Regaining control over daily activities empowers you to live a more fulfilling life.
Living a Fuller Life
LSVT BIG is a valuable tool, but it's just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan. Your OT will work closely with your healthcare team to ensure you receive the best possible care.
This blog post provides a glimpse into what LSVT BIG can offer in occupational therapy. If you're living with Parkinson's and want to improve your ability to manage daily tasks, talk to your doctor about a referral to an OT certified in LSVT BIG. Take control and reclaim your independence!
