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

What does GLA:D^® involve?

This education and exercise program reflects the latest evidence in osteoarthritis (OA) research. OA is the most common lifestyle disease in individuals 65 year of age and older, but can also affect individuals as young as 30 years of age.

Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight loss as first line treatment for osteoarthritis.

In Australia, treatment usually focuses on surgery and the GLA:D^® Australia program offers a safe alternative that may avoid the need for surgery.

GLA:D^® Australia training consists of:

• A first appointment with a physiotherapist explaining the program and collecting data on your current functional ability
• Two education sessions which teach you about OA, how the GLA:D® Australia exercises improve joint stability, and how to retain this improved joint stability outside of the program
• Group neuromuscular training sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve muscle control of the joint which leads to reduction in symptoms and improved quality of life
• Follow-up consultation to review your functional ability and guide you beyond the 6 week program

You do not need a referral from you Doctor to attend our GLA:D program, however you may be eligible for a rebate from Medicare for some of the cost of the program, if deemed appropriate by your GP. Rebates for the physiotherapy consultations and exercise sessions can be claimed on private health insurance.

Can I participate in the GLA:D program?

GLA:D® Australia is a program for all individuals who experience any hip and/or knee osteoarthritis symptoms, regardless of severity.

You may participate in the GLA:D program if you have a hip or knee joint problem that resulted in visiting a health care provider.

You may not be able to participate in the GLA:D® Australia program if:

• You have other reasons for your hip and/or knee pain, including; tumor, inflammatory joint disease, result of hip fracture, soft tissue or connective tissue problems
• You have other symptoms that are more pronounced than the osteoarthritis problems (for example chronic generalized pain or fibromyalgia)
• You are unable to understand and communicate in English

Background of the GLA:D^® Program

Research from the GLA:D® program in Denmark found symptom progression reduces by 32%.

Other outcomes include less pain, reduced use of joint-related pain killers, and less people on sick leave. GLA:D® participants also reported high levels of satisfaction with the program and increased levels of physical activity 12 months after starting the 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 properly, prevent symptom progression and reduce pain.

You will be asked whether or not you consent to data collection as part of the program. This will assist with further research into the treatment of osteoarthritis. Participation in the research program is not mandatory and will not exclude your ability to participate in the training program.

If you would like to find out more info or to register for the GLA:D program please contact reception on 96817255.

Please ensure you mention GLA:D when making your initial appointment to ensure you are booked in with our GLA:D certified physiotherapists.