Find out more about our GLA:D® program and osteoarthritis management below.
GLA:D®, from ‘Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark’, is an education and exercise program developed by researchers in Denmark for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms. It was then brought to Australia in 2016 to help Australians with hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA).
Research from the GLA:D® program in Australia shows an average pain reduction of 36%, reduced analgesic consumption, reduction in perceived need for surgery, and clinically meaningful improvement in joint confidence.
The GLA:D® Program aims to reduce the everyday aches and pains associated with osteoarthritis of the hip and/or knee joints. Osteoarthritis is an extremely common condition that causes pain and disability for many people.
In Australia, it is often managed with surgery and medication, however the GLA:D® program offers exercise and lifestyle changes to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.
A 1 hour initial appointment prior to the group sessions commencing to explain the six week program and measure your current functional ability. This must be completed PRIOR to the group sessions commencing.
Two education sessions that 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 control of the joint, your confidence in the joint, and your strength.
A review at 3 months with your clinician to discuss progress and goals, and re-measure your functional ability. Completion of a questionnaire on registration with the program, and then again at 3 and 12 months after registration to measure changes in areas such as pain, function, quality of life, and medication use.
This education and exercise program reflects the latest evidence in osteoarthritis research. It also includes feedback from people with osteoarthritis and trainers on what works in the real world to help patients manage osteoarthritis symptoms.
GLA: D® Australia is run in private, public, and hospital clinics. The cost of the program can vary depending on the location. Please discuss this with your clinician. You do not need a referral from your doctor.
Our GLA:D® qualified practitioner at Maroondah Osteopathy and Sportscare is our Exercise Physiologist Erin. Erin is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) with Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA). Her services are eligible for Medicare rebates alongside a Chronic Disease Management plan, and Private Heath rebates.
