LSVT BIG

What is LSVT BIG™ therapy?

LSVT BIG therapy is a research-based exercise approach developed from principles of the Parkinson’s specific speech treatment, LSVT LOUD™. It empowers people with Parkinson’s disease to move better.

Research on LSVT BIG has documented improved ratings on tests of motor functioning in people with Parkinson’s disease following treatment. Improvements include:

  • Faster walking because of bigger steps
  • Improved balance
  • Increased trunk rotation

What does the treatment consist of?

LSVT BIG is a standardized treatment protocol that helps establish a life-long habit of BIG practice. It consists of:

  • 16 sessions: Four consecutive days a week for four weeks
  • Individual one-hour sessions
  • Daily homework practice
  • Daily carryover exercises

LSVT BIG treatment:

  • Trains a single target of amplitude (bigger movement)
  • Drives intense and high-effort practice
  • Teaches the amount of effort required to produce normal movements
  • Translates bigger movements into real-world, everyday activities
  • Empowers people with Parkinson’s disease with their potential to improve

Ready to start the LSVT BIG program?

Contact Brookings Health System’s Rehabilitative Services team at (605) 696-8821.