Osteoarthritis treatment plays a crucial role in improving quality of life for individuals suffering from this common joint condition. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common non-communicable disease affecting older adults, although it can also affect individuals as young as 30. In Australia alone, it impacts approximately 2.1 million people, often leading to joint pain, reduced mobility, and decreased quality of life.
At Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury, we strongly recommend the GLA: D® program as the gold-standard, evidence-based approach for managing hip and knee osteoarthritis.
Current clinical guidelines from both national and international health bodies strongly recommend exercise, patient education, and weight management as the first-line approach to osteoarthritis treatment. The Royal College of General Practitioners particularly emphasises that regular, tailored exercise improves both pain and function in those with OA.
Despite the evidence from over 50 randomised controlled trials supporting exercise as an effective osteoarthritis treatment, access to these programs remains low. That’s where the GLA:D® program comes in.
GLA:D® stands for Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark. This internationally recognised education and exercise program was designed by researchers in Denmark specifically for individuals experiencing symptoms of hip or knee osteoarthritis.
The GLA:D® program was introduced in Australia by La Trobe University to improve access to evidence-based osteoarthritis treatment. Only physiotherapists trained and accredited through the GLA:D® course are qualified to deliver the program.
Since its Australian launch in 2017, the GLA:D® program has helped thousands of individuals reduce osteoarthritis-related pain, improve mobility, and decrease dependence on pain medications. Participants consistently report enhanced quality of life and improved ability to manage symptoms on their own.
In 2020 the GLA:D Australia program reported the following results:
| KNEE | HIP | |
| Pain | – 33% | – 27% |
| Medication | – 49% | – 45% |
| Walking speed | + 14% | + 12% |
| Quality of life | + 29% | + 20%
|
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The GLA:D® program combines education and supervised exercise to help you manage your osteoarthritis symptoms and improve function. Here’s what it involves:
Initial Consultation: A physiotherapy assessment to determine your suitability and record baseline data.
12 Supervised Exercise Sessions: Conducted over six weeks, these sessions are tailored to your individual needs and aim to enhance joint stability and strength.
2 Free Education Sessions: Learn about osteoarthritis, effective self-management strategies, and the proven benefits of exercise for OA.
3-Month Review: Re-assessment to track your progress and plan future treatment, if necessary.
Exercises are conducted in small group settings and adjusted based on your capacity. After the program, you’ll be encouraged to continue physical activity to maintain long-term benefits.
You may be eligible for GLA:D® Australia if:
Your recovery starts with the right team by your side. Don’t wait for pain to hold you back— Contact Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury now to begin your journey to a healthier, stronger you.
