For those living with Parkinson's, back pain and stiffness can be some of the most frustrating symptoms of the neurological disorder. Luckily, with cutting edge physical therapy programs like LSVT BIG®, those living with Parkinson’s can combat the slowing and smallness of movements associated with the disease. Samantha Schroder, DPT, a physical therapist based in Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine’s Charlotte office is certified in the approach. She joins Back Talk Doc host, Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia, to discuss how the program reorganizes nerve networks in the brain to improve functioning.  The program focuses on big movements, which yield significant improvements in patients committed to the regimen. Samantha explains, “[We] get them to move really big. While it might seem super exaggerated when we act it out, when [the patient] acts it out, it's essentially going to be normal movement because they're starting from a place that's smaller. Having them do things that feel really exaggerated to them is going to look normal to us, and that's one of the main parts of the program.” In addition to explaining the science behind the program, Samantha shares exercises that patients can do to improve their posture and decrease back pain, also noting the benefits of integrating diaphragmatic breathing into the routine. ? Featured Expert ?Name: Samantha Schroeder, DPTWhat she does: Samantha Shroeder, DPT, is a licensed physical therapist living in Charlotte, NC. She has extensive experience in treating neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions, with specific interest in Parkinson’s Disease. Samantha is certified in treating Parkinson’s using the LSVT BIG® method.Company:  Carolina Neurosurgery & SpineWords of wisdom: "I fell into Parkinson’s because, during my clinical rotations, I noticed that it was more common than I had realized. It's the second most common neurological disease in the U.S., and people with Parkinson's can experience moderate to severe functional deficits. I believe that there is a significant role for physical therapy in treating Parkinson's, and that's where my interests stem from."Connect: LinkedIn | LSVT BIG® PromotionSubscribe & Contact? If you enjoyed this episode of Back Talk Doc, check out our recent episode Back Surgery Revisions with Patrick Jowdy, MD? Enroll in Dr. Lakhia’s 6 week course to lower inflammation. ? Apply for an Integrative Medicine consult with Dr. Lakhia (NC/SC residents only). ? For more information on Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia and the podcast visit BackTalkDoc.com. ? Subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Back Talk Doc is brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, with offices in North and South Carolina. To learn more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back and spine issues, go to backtalkdoc.com. To schedule an appointment with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, you can...