Bigger and Louder—LSVT Program Grows

Welia Health expands LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD for the Parkinson’s community

At Welia Health, we are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. We are thrilled to announce that by the end of October, we will significantly expand our LSVT BIG® and LSVT LOUD® services at our three locations: Mora, Hinckley, and Pine City. This expansion will enable us to reach more patients in our community, ensuring that everyone has access to these transformative programs.

It’s important to note that our therapists have undergone specialized training to become certified in these evidence-based programs. Currently, Welia Health has ten credentialed therapists across both LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD, ready to provide expert care and support.

What is LSVT BIG?

LSVT BIG is a specialized treatment program designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. This evidence-based program focuses on improving both gross and fine motor skills through a customized approach tailored to the unique needs of each patient.

Common challenges 

• Slowness and smallness of movement
• Difficulty with functional mobility (such as rising from a chair or rolling in bed)
• Balance issues
• Changes in fine motor tasks (like writing or buttoning)

Key benefits

• Faster walking with larger steps
• Enhanced balance and stability
• Improved trunk rotation
• Better performance in daily activities

The LSVT BIG treatment consists of 16 sessions over four weeks, featuring individual one-hour sessions, daily homework, and carryover exercises. This structured approach helps patients establish lifelong habits of improved movement and mobility.

What is LSVT LOUD?

LSVT LOUD focuses on improving speech and communication for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. Many individuals notice speech changes early in their diagnosis, which can significantly impact their quality of life.

Common speech challenges

• Soft or mumbled speech
• Monotone delivery
• Hoarse voice

Key benefits

• Improved vocal loudness
• Increased facial expression
• Enhanced speech intelligibility
• Greater confidence in communication

Similar to LSVT BIG, LSVT LOUD consists of 16 sessions over four weeks, with individualized 1-hour sessions, daily practice, and carryover exercises. This program is backed by over 20 years of research from the National Institute of Health (NIH), ensuring a high standard of care.

How to decide if LSVT BIG or LOUD is right for you

If you or a loved one are experiencing challenges with movement or speech, it’s important to consider whether these programs could benefit you. Here are a few questions to help you decide:

1. Do you notice changes in your movement or balance?
2. Are you struggling with everyday tasks that require fine motor skills?
3. Have you experienced changes in your speech or communication?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, LSVT BIG or LOUD may be a suitable option for you.

Hear it from Welia Health

Getting started at Welia Health

With our expanded capacity, we are ready to serve more patients in our community, ensuring everyone has access to these transformative programs. If you’re interested in learning more, we encourage you to reach out for additional information or to schedule an evaluation. A referral is needed from your primary care provider to get started; please contact Andy McCann at amccann@welia.org or 320.225.3439.

At Welia Health, we are here to help you navigate your journey with Parkinson’s disease, empowering you to make informed decisions about your care.