The impact of LSVT BIG therapy on postural control for individuals with Parkinson disease: A case series

ABSTRACT

Background and Purpose

LSVT BIG therapy may improve motor function and gait in those with early Parkinson disease (PD), but its impact on postural control for those with moderate PD has not been investigated. The purpose of this case series is to describe the impact of LSVT BIG therapy on postural control and gait in three individuals with moderate PD.

Intervention

Three individuals with moderate PD, classified as stage 3 on the Hoehn and Yahr Scale, participated in the LSVT BIG therapy program. Intervention included 16–18 individual physical therapy sessions, provided within 4 weeks, focused on increasing amplitude of movement and a daily home exercise program. Outcomes, including balance, gait, dual-task performance, quality of life, and balance confidence, were examined after program completion, 1- and 4-months later.

Outcomes

Clinically meaningful improvements in balance and gait, including performance under dual-task conditions, were achieved by all patients and many of these improvements were maintained up to 4 months later. Changes in quality of life were not observed during the length of the intervention.

Conclusion

LSVT BIG therapy may improve postural control, gait, and dual-task performance, and therefore reduce fall risk for individuals with moderate PD.

KEYWORDS:

• Parkinson disease
• LSVT BIG
• dual task performance
• falls
• balance
• postural control

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.