Programs empower individuals with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions to keep their voice alive and stay physically active
Contact: Crossing Rivers Communications
“If you or someone you know has Parkinson’s disease or another neurological condition, you know first-hand the challenges of living with a chronic and progressive disorder that affects movement, balance and speech,” states Nicole Martin, Speech Therapy Director at Crossing Rivers Health. “The therapists in our Rehabilitation Services are pleased to offer both Speech Therapy (LSVT LOUD) and Physical/Occupational Therapy (LSVT BIG) programs to guide individuals through exercise-based therapy. Research suggests that you should not wait until you begin to experience a decline in the strength/quality of your speech or impairments in movement and balance before starting the program.”
“Communication is the foundation to every aspect of our lives. Since I became certified in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD) over five years ago, it has been rewarding to see how patients have improved through the LSVT LOUD sessions and how it has positively impacted the quality of their daily interactions,” explains Juli Smith, Speech Language Pathologist.
LSVT LOUD is an evidence-based speech treatment program for individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) and other neurological conditions. LSVT LOUD, named for Mrs. Lee Silverman (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment – LSVT) is administered through a total of 16 individual one hour sessions- four consecutive days a week for four weeks. The intensive LSVT LOUD therapy stimulates the motor system and incorporates sensory awareness to help patients increase and better self-monitor the volume of their voice. Research studies have also documented benefits from LSVT LOUD to include improvements with articulation, facial expression and swallowing.
LSVT BIG is a research-based exercise approach developed from principles of the effective Parkinson’s specific speech treatment LSVT LOUD. Improvements include: faster walking with bigger steps, improved balance, and increased trunk rotation. LSVT BIG is a standardized treatment protocol, consisting also of 16 individual one hour sessions- four consecutive days a week for four weeks. The program uses intensive and high effort practice to encourage bigger and stronger movements. As part of the program, patients also work at home with daily practice and exercise. LSVT BIG can help you keep your movements alive and improve the quality of your life.
Nicole Martin adds, “We encourage individuals to make the commitment today by calling us at 608-357-2216 to learn more about the LSVT LOUD and LSVT BIG programs. Information is also available by visiting our website, crossingrivers.org.”