LSVT LOUD and LSVT BIG: Behavioral Treatment Programs for Speech and Body Movement in Parkinson Disease
Figure 1
We hypothesize that pretreatment (a), individuals with PD have reduced amplitude of motor output, which results in soft voice and small movements. Due to problems in sensory self-perception they are not aware of the soft voice and small movements, or they do not recognize the extent of their soft voice and smaller movements. As a result, no error correction is made and individuals continue to program or self-cue reduced amplitude of motor output. They are “stuck” in a cycle of being soft and small. The focus in treatment (b) is on increasing the amplitude of motor output by having individuals with PD produce a louder voice and larger movements. Individuals are then taught that what feels/sounds/looks “too loud” or “too big” is within normal limits and has a positive impact on daily functional living. Therefore at the end of treatment, individuals habitually self-cue increased amplitude of motor output and have attention to action. Now they are in a cycle of a louder voice and bigger movements.
