GLA:D® Australia Exercise Program
GLA:D® program starting on TUESDAY 13th August 2024
Due to popular demand we will be running an additional program soon, please contact us for details
What is the treatment method?
Developed in Denmark, the GLA:D®, (Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark) education and exercise program was developed to help people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms.
The GLA:D® program reflects the latest evidence in osteoarthritis (OA) research. It also includes feedback from people with OA and trainers on what works in the real world to help patients manage OA symptoms.
What does the GLA:D® program involve?
- An initial session to explain the program and measure your current functional ability
- Small group exercise and education sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve your control of the joint, your confidence in the joint and your strength. These sessions also incorporate an educational component which teaching you about about OA, its risk factors, treatment options, and self-management strategies.
- A review at 3-months with your physiotherapist to discuss progress and goals, and re-measure your functional ability
This program is unique in that the education and exercises provided can be applied to everyday activities, ensuring participants develop skills to self-manage their osteoarthritis. By strengthening and improving confidence with exercise, participants develop better capacity to become or stay active, prevent symptom progression, and reduce pain.
Our physios undertake specialized training to be able to offer the GLA:D program to clients. You do not need a referral from your doctor. Eligible participants may be able to use Medicare funding to cover costs of assessments and some people may be eligible to access publicly-funded services. Private health claims should be discussed with your insurer.
Can I participate in GLA:D® Australia?
GLA:D® Australia is a program for all individuals who experience any hip and/or knee pain or symptoms of OA, regardless of severity.
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.
You may need to explore other options than the GLA:D® Australia program if:
- You have other reasons for your hip and/or knee pain, including: tumor, inflammatory joint disease, results of leg 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
However, there may be parts of the program that will still be helpful for you. Your physiotherapist will discuss your best treatment options with you as part of the assessment process.
Research and the GLA:D® Program
Research from the GLA:D® program in Australia (GLA:D® Australia Annual Report 2020) found an average reduction in pain of 27% (hip) and 33% (knee), improved quality of life by 20% (hip) and 29% (knee), and reduced usage of pain medication by 45% (hip) and 49% (knee). It was also found that less people desired surgery after completing the program.
Conditions we treat
Knee Pain
Physio can help the many different causes of knee pain, some of these include; ligament strains, kneecap/patella pain, meniscal/’cartilage injuries’ and Osteoarthritis.
Back pain
Back pain is extremely common and can have a considerable impact on people’s day to day lives. Physio can help the many different causes of back pain, some of these include; sporting injuries, work injuries, lifting injuries and posture.
At EBR Physio we pride ourselves in offering our patients the latest technologies to help you achieve your outcomes.
To create your tailored exercise programs we use an app called PhysiApp.
PhysiApp lets you complete your prescribed exercise program by following crystal-clear, narrated exercise videos.
PhysiApp is completely free to download from the App store and Google Play store or can be accessed via your browser. Built-in reminders help you to stay on track towards a better you!
Memberships, associations and partners
