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GLA:D®

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? 

GLA:D® is a program of exercise and education designed to help reduce the symptoms of hip and/or knee osteoarthritis. GLA:D® reflects the latest evidence in osteoarthritis (OA) research.

 

GLA:D® Australia training consists of:

  • An initial appointment with one of our GLA:D® certified physiotherapists explaining the program and collecting data on your current functional ability.

  • Two education sessions that teach you about osteoarthritis, how the GLA:D® Australia exercises improve joint stability, and how to retain this improved joint stability outside of the program.

  • Group neuromuscular exercise training sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve muscle control of the joint which leads to a reduction in symptoms and improved quality of life.

  • Although everyone does the same exercises in these sessions, you will have a program that is customised by the physiotherapist to suit you.

Who does it help?

GLA:D® has been shown to help people with mild, moderate and severe osteoarthritis of the hip or knee and people over the age of 40 who have symptoms of OA. The factors that improve include pain, mobility and quality of life.

 

The GLA:D® Australia program offers a safe, evidence-based first-line treatment plan as an alternative to early surgery.

Outcomes of GLA:D®

Outcomes from participants 12 months after they completed the GLA:D® program in Denmark, Canada and Australia, showed that on average, the program results in:

  • Less pain

  • Improved quality of life

  • Reduced use of joint related pain medication

  • Increased physical activity

 

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

Can I participate in GLA:D® Australia?

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

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 tumour, inflammatory joint disease, the result of hip fracture, soft tissue or connective tissue problems.

  • You have other symptoms that are more pronounced than osteoarthritis problems (for example chronic generalised pain or fibromyalgia).

  • You are unable to understand and communicate in English.

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