3 ways Parkinson’s physical therapy aims to help you

Parkinson’s disease is a disease that affects nearly 1 million people in the United States. An estimated 60,000 people are diagnosed every year according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Parkinson’s disease causes certain nerve cells in the brain to become weaker. This results in a loss of fine motor control, balance and flexibility in the body. Many patients also experience difficulty with speaking, as well as digestive, memory and mood disorders.

Unfortunately, a cure for Parkinson’s disease has not yet been discovered. However, many patients have found that physical therapy has helped them with many of the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. One of the most widely used methods that physical therapists employ is known as Lee Silverman Voice Technique BIG (LSVT-BIG).

LSVT-BIG is a research-based approach to treating Parkinson’s disease. Increasing patients’ motor function and independence is the number one goal of LSVT-BIG therapy.

How can LSVT-BIG physical therapy help with symptoms of Parkinson’s?

LSVT-BIG physical therapy helps Parkinson’s patients improve their function through the use of exercises. Here are three ways that this kind of physical therapy can help:

1. Improving balance — One of the most difficult symptoms caused by Parkinson’s disease is a loss of balance. Physical therapists can guide you through exercises that aim to improve balance. They can also help you learn ways to compensate for your balance issues.

2. Preventing falls — Many patients suffering from Parkinson’s have a fear of falling and injuring themselves. This has a negative impact on a patient’s ability to remain independent. A physical therapist can assess your fall risk and help you find ways to mitigate that risk.

3. Increasing movement — Physical therapists use specific exercises to help you maintain your flexibility and movement. Improvements in your movement can include faster walking with bigger steps as well as increased trunk rotation.

Where can I find LSVT-BIG physical therapy near me?

It is crucial that LSVT-BIG treatments are delivered by physical therapy specialists who are certified in this method. Armor Physical Therapy offers physical therapy for Parkinson’s disease patients that has been certified by LSVT Global, Inc. We can provide treatment for individuals with movement disorders related to Parkinson’s disease, as well as stroke recovery, sports concussions and other neurological conditions. Trust the experienced team at Armor Physical Therapy to help you live comfortably and safely with Parkinson’s. 

Contact us today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.