Somerset Hills Physical Therapy is proud to offer the LSVT BIG™ program for  anyone who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. LSVT BIG™ is a specialized treatment program administered by a licensed physical therapist, who has been certified to carry out the program. Somerset Hills PT in Basking Ridge, has the only therapist within a 10 mile radius certified in this treatment technique. Shelley Meltzer, PT, has been a practicing physical therapist for more than 20 years and received her certification in August 2012. She enjoys working with patients to help them achieve their goals of functional independence and a more active lifestyle.

Recently principles of LSVT LOUD™ were applied to limb movement in people with Parkinson disease (LSVT BIG™).  LSVT BIG training increases amplitude of limb and body movement “BIGNESS” and is offered by Physical Therapists all over the world,

LSVT BIG is a rigorous program delivered in 16 sessions. These sessions are 1:1 with Shelley and are scheduled over a 4 week period.  Each week consists of 4 consecutive one-hour sessions.  The protocol is both intensive and complex, with many repetitions of core movements that are used in daily living. This type of practice is necessary to optimize learning and applying better movement into everyday life!

Start exercising NOW – as soon as possible. Physicians rarely refer their patients to health and fitness programs at diagnosis because medications are very effective early on at alleviating most of the symptoms, and patients experience little change in function. Yet, according to a recent survey it is at the time of diagnosis that patients often begin to consider lifestyle changes and seek education about conventional and complementary/alternative treatment options. Thus referrals to exercise, wellness programs and physical/occupational therapy would be best initiated at diagnosis, when it may have the most impact on quality of life. This program is typically covered by insurance. 

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and are interested in learning more about LSVT BIG™, please contact Shelley at shelley@somersethillspt.com .

To find out additional information on LSVT BIG™ and LSVT LOUD™ visit the official homepage  www.lsvtglobal.com