Osteoarthritis Treatment: GLA:D® Program for Hip and Knee Pain Relief
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.
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.
What is GLA:D?
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.
What Does the GLA:D® Program Include?
The GLA:D® program combines education and supervised exercise to help you manage your osteoarthritis symptoms and improve function. Here’s what it involves:
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Initial Consultation: A physiotherapy assessment to determine your suitability and record baseline data.
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12 Supervised Exercise Sessions: Conducted over six weeks, these sessions are tailored to your individual needs and aim to enhance joint stability and strength.
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2 Free Education Sessions: Learn about osteoarthritis, effective self-management strategies, and the proven benefits of exercise for OA.
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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.
Why Choose GLA:D® for Osteoarthritis Treatment?
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%
|
Who Can Join GLA:D® Australia?
You may be eligible for GLA:D® Australia if:
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You have a diagnosed hip or knee osteoarthritis condition.
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You experience joint pain, stiffness, or reduced function.
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You are motivated to actively manage your condition.
If other medical issues limit your ability to participate, our clinic also offers alternative physiotherapy-led exercise classes.
Book Your Osteoarthritis Treatment Today
Ready to start your journey toward reduced pain and improved movement? Contact our team at 08 9770 1107 or book your initial appointment online here. Our trained physiotherapists are here to guide you through evidence-based osteoarthritis treatment using the GLA:D® program.
Call us on (08) 9770 1107 or book in today.
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