STUART — The symptoms of Parkinson's disease — which include tremors, stooped posture, difficulty walking, and overall smaller, stiffer movements — impede everyday tasks such as rising from a chair, walking to the mailbox or even getting dressed.
Those with Parkinson’s also experience motor problems in the facial and laryngeal muscles, causing a weakened voice and decreased facial expressions. As a result, they may be difficult to hear and/or understand when speaking.
Parkinson's patients often become very quiet in their speech, and slow and rigid-moving in their daily activities and gait pattern.
Along with medications, the most effective treatment plan for Parkinson’s disease is a rehabilitation program that directly addresses both mobility and communication issues — LSVT BIG and LOUD.
LSVT, or the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, was developed about 25 years ago. It was created by Lee Silverman, a dedicated speech therapist who performed studies to help patients with Parkinson's disease improve communication. In 2007, the program was expanded to include LSVT BIG to improve movements as well as speech.
The protocol for both LSVT BIG and LOUD is a four-week program with 60-minute sessions four times a week. The program is designed to give the patient a baseline of daily exercises that are to be continued every day for the best results.
The LSVT "BIG" program teaches larger amplitude movements through regimented physical and occupational therapy. It incorporates exercises, walking and functional tasks that are individualized for each patient. It primarily focuses on proper walking and can address shuffling or freezing gait patterns, and slow and rigid movement that Parkinson's patients often develop. The results are bigger steps, improved posture and balance, and greater independence with daily activities.
LSVT "LOUD" is the speech therapy component, focusing on a stronger voice, clearer articulation, greater control over facial expression, and improved swallowing function. Improvements are seen with multiple sessions as the brain "relearns" the range of normal for movement and speech.
Both programs are available through Martin Health Rehabilitation Services and are covered by most insurance plans. To make a referral, please call 772-223-2811 or fax a referral to 772-781-2715.
Martin Health System also offers two medical fitness programs specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson's disease: Hooping for Parkinson's and Punch Out Parkinson's. Learn more at www.martinhealth.org/punch-out-parkinsons.
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