Effects of LSVT BIG ® on Bradykinesia During Activities of Daily Living

Bradykinesia in Parkinson’s disease (PD) can limit activities of daily living (ADL) through disruption of roles and routines. Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT BIG) is a commonly used program for persons with PD but it is not known if LSVT BIG can impact bradykinesia. This preliminary study sought to determine if LSVT BIG participation would impact bradykinesia during ADL. Sixty patient charts were reviewed following participation in the LSVT BIG program. Time to perform three functional tasks was recorded before and after participation. A significant decrease in time, on average, of 14.5 s to don/doff a jacket ( p = .009), 18.3 s to don/doff socks ( p = .01), and 21.4 s to insert a pillow into a pillowcase ( p < .01) was observed. Speed of performance during three ADL tasks improved significantly following LSVT BIG participation; therefore, this program may positively impact bradykinesia and task performance in Parkinson’s.