I’ve Made BIG Improvements with Parkinson’s Therapy Program – Parkinson’s News Today

I have been seeing a physical therapist four times a week for the last month. I hadnt injured myself, though I experience aches and pains with Parkinsons disease.

My neurologist referred me to a physical therapist who teaches the BIG program. The LSVT BIG program is designed for people with Parkinsons to bring their movements to a more normal state, as they tend to become slower and smaller over time.

My first appointment consisted of small tests, like those performed during a Parkinsons diagnostic exam but less extensive. The therapist examines and times your walking and tests your balance, among other abilities.

BIG is customized for people with Parkinsons. Perhaps you struggle with getting out of bed. Though this specific activity isnt included in the standard routine of the BIG program, it can be worked into your tailored activities. The therapy can help you no matter what stage of the disease you are at and its recommended that you start treatment as early as possible.

The BIG treatment improved my walking in general, and I gained confidence with stair-stepping. I no longer take each stair sideways, with extreme caution, and slower than molasses. The program helped me to be more intentional in my activities and how I carry them out.

At my therapy sessions, we started with the exercises that are specific to the BIG program. I completed two exercises while sitting in a chair, stretching down, up, and back, and ending with a BIG finish. The rest of the exercises except for the last are performed while standing and are aimed at balance and coordination, and also end with a BIG finish. The program strives to teach the person with Parkinsons to emulate the bigger movements of those around them who walk and interact normally.

After the regular exercises, we practiced tasks tailored to my needs. These included cutting up food, buttoning/unbuttoning and zipping/unzipping my coat or sweater, and other tasks. After those exercises, we walked around the neighborhood for a half-hour, practicing arm swings and balance.

My sessions are over, and as my movements have improved, my outlook has, too. While the exercises are not difficult to do, they must be practiced daily for continuous improvement. I noticed that if I skipped even one day, it made a difference to my ease of movement. I realize that if I want to live BIG, I need to exercise BIG, and that means I must think BIG.

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Note: Parkinsons News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinsons News Today or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinsons disease.

Sherri was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinsons disease over fifteen years ago. She can be found working in her garden, going for walks, taking pictures, or reading books to her three favorite grandkids. Taking life somewhat slower, and perhaps with guarded steps, but shes not giving in.

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I've Made BIG Improvements with Parkinson's Therapy Program - Parkinson's News Today