GLA:D – Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark

Now available at Back In Motion, GLA:D Australia is an 12 week education and exercise program for knee and hip osteoarthritis, provided under the supervision of a GLA:D certified physiotherapist.

What is GLA:D?

This education and exercise program reflects the latest evidence in osteoarthritis (OA) research. It includes feedback from people with OA as well as what works in the real world to help manage OA symptoms.

GLA:D training consists of:

• A first appointment explaining the program and collecting data on your current functional ability.
• Two education sessions to teach you about OA, how the GLA:D exercises improve joint stability and how to retain this improved joint stability outside of the program.
• Group neuromuscular training sessions twice a week for 12 weeks to improve muscle control of the joint which leads to reduction in symptoms and improved quality of life.

Is GLA:D for me?

GLA:D is a program for all individuals who experience any hip and/or knee osteoarthritis symptoms, regardless of severity. You may participate in the program if your hip or knee joint problem resulted in visiting a health care provider. You may not be able to participate in the program if:

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

OA Treatment in Australia

Treatment usually focuses on surgery. The GLA:D program offers a better and safer alternative. Research from the GLA:D program in Denmark found symptom progression in participants reduced by 32%. Other outcomes include less pain, reduced use of joint related pain killers and decreased sick leave. GLA:D participants also reported high levels of satisfaction with the program and increased.