The GLA:D® program (Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark) is an education and exercise program developed by researchers in Denmark for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

Osteoarthritis is the most common lifestyle condition affecting individuals 65 years of age and older, but can also affect those as young as 30.

Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight loss as first line treatment for osteoarthritis. In Australia, however, treatment usually focuses on surgery and the GLA:D Australia program offers a better and safer alternative.

Research from the GLA:D® Denmark found that patient reported symptoms reduced by 32% after partaking in the program. Other favourable outcomes included less pain, reduced use of pain killers, and less sick leave or absenteeism. GLA:D® participants also reported high levels of satisfaction with the program and increased their levels of physical activity 12 months after starting the program. Similar results have also occurred via the GLA:D Canada Program.

This program is unique in that the education and exercises provided can be applied to everyday activities. By strengthening and correcting daily movement patterns, participants will train their bodies to move efficiently, prevent symptom progression and reduce their pain.

The GLA:D® Australia program consists of:

• Initial appointment to explain the program and measure your baseline strength and current functional ability.

• Two education sessions which teach you about osteoarthritis, its risk factors, treatment options, and self-management strategies.

• Group exercise sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve your strength and control of the joint, and your confidence in the joint.

• A review at 3-months with your physiotherapist to discuss your progress and goals, and re-measure your functional ability.

• Completion of a questionnaire on commencement of the program, and then again at 3 and 12 months to measure changes in pain, function, quality of life, and medication use.

GLA:D® Australia is a program for all individuals who experience any hip and/or knee osteoarthritis symptoms, regardless of severity or x-ray reports. You may participate in the GLA:D® Australia program if you have a hip or knee joint problem that resulted in visiting a health care provider.

To get started as a new or existing client, book a 500 GLA:D initial consult with one of our GLA:D trained physiotherapists.