Parkinson’s Awareness Month: How LSVT BIG Helps You Move with Confidence
Imagine waking up one morning and noticing that simple movements, like buttoning a shirt, walking across the room, or standing up from a chair, feel slower, smaller, and less automatic than they used to be. For many people living with Parkinson’s disease, this isn’t just a single moment; it’s an everyday reality.
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the nearly 1 million Americans living with this progressive neurological condition. While Parkinson’s affects each person differently, common symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and difficulty moving can make once-easy activities feel like uphill battles. But here’s the good news: Movement is Medicine, and LSVT BIG is helping people with Parkinson’s move with more confidence, energy, and independence.
At Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, we offer LSVT BIG, a research-backed treatment program designed to retrain the body and brain to move with bigger, more powerful movements. If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s, keep reading to learn how this program can help you take back control of your movement and your life.
What is LSVT BIG?
Think of LSVT BIG as physical therapy on a grand scale—literally. This specialized program helps individuals with Parkinson’s amplify their movements so they can walk, reach, and perform daily activities with more ease.
One of the biggest challenges for people with Parkinson’s is bradykinesia, or slow movement. Over time, the brain sends smaller movement signals, making stepping forward, swinging your arms, or standing tall feel unnatural, even when necessary. LSVT BIG helps “retrain” the brain to recognize and produce larger, more functional movements.
How Does LSVT BIG Help?
Meet Jim. Jim was diagnosed with Parkinson’s a few years ago. He noticed that his steps were getting shorter, his posture was slouching, and it was harder to button his shirt. He felt frustrated, not because he was in pain, but because he felt like he was losing control of his body.
Then, Jim’s neurologist recommended LSVT BIG. After just a few weeks of therapy, Jim started noticing changes: he walked with longer, stronger strides, got out of chairs with less effort, and felt more confident. Most importantly, he felt like himself again.
Like Jim, many people who go through LSVT BIG experience:
Better Balance – Reducing falls and improving stability
Bigger Movements – Making walking, reaching, and turning easier
More Confidence – Moving with purpose instead of hesitation
Improved Strength & Posture – Standing taller and moving with energy
LSVT BIG isn’t about just exercising; it’s about learning to move through life in a way that feels strong and natural again.
*The name in the case study has been changed to protect the patient's identity.
What to Expect from LSVT BIG at Advanced Physical Therapy
At Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, our certified LSVT BIG therapists work one-on-one with patients, guiding them through a structured four-week program that includes:
High-intensity, whole-body exercises designed to promote bigger, more powerful movements
Customized training to target the daily activities that matter most to you
Encouragement & motivation to keep improving long after therapy ends
Whether it’s playing with your grandkids, getting back to gardening, or simply walking into a room confidently, our goal is to help you move and live better.
Where Can You Find LSVT BIG?
We proudly offer LSVT BIG at our Appleton (Appleton North and Touchmark), Fond du Lac, Iola, Ripon, and Waupaca clinics. If you or a loved one is ready to move bigger, feel stronger, and live more confidently, we’re here to help.
Take the First Step Toward Moving BIGGER
Parkinson’s disease doesn’t have to define how you move through life. With the right therapy and support, you can reclaim your strength, independence, and confidence.
If you’re ready to take the first step, contact us today to learn more about LSVT BIG and how it can help you or a loved one.
📞 Call us or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, let’s spread hope and help more people move BIG.