GLA:D® Program for Knee and Hip Osteo-Arthritis
GLA:D® Australia is a not-for-profit initiative led by La Trobe University, and The GLA:D® Program is now coming to Continuum Physiotherapy! This article will tell you everything you need to know about the program, how to get involved, and if it is right for you!
What is GLA:D®?
GLA:D®, from ‘Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark’, is an education and exercise program developed by researchers in Denmark for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms. It was then brought to Australia in 2016. This education and exercise 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.
Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight management as first line treatment for everyone with OA. In Australia, treatment usually focuses on medications and surgery. The GLA:D® Australia program offers a safe alternative that may reduce your need for medications, avoid the need for surgery, and improve your ability to participate more actively in work and recreational activities.
What does GLA:D® involve?
The GLA:D® Australia program consists of:
- An initial appointment to explain the program and measure your current functional ability
- Two education sessions which teach you about OA, its risk factors, treatment options, and self-management strategies.
- Group exercise sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve your control of the joint, your confidence in the joint and your strength
- A review at 3-months with your clinician to discuss progress and goals, and re-measure your functional ability
- Completion of a questionnaire on registration with the program, and then again at 3 and 12 months after registration to measure changes in areas such as pain, function, quality of life, and medication use.
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 OA. By strengthening and improving confidence with exercise, participants develop better capacity to become or stay active, prevent symptom progression, and reduce pain.
Can I Participate in the GLA:D® Program?
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 do not need a referral from a doctor to get involved in GLA:D®.
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.
GLA:D® Australia continues to collect information from participants so that it can keep working towards improving access to the best possible care for people with osteoarthritis.
What does the program cost?
| Initial GLA:D® Assessment (30 minutes) | $105 |
| 12 Group Exercise Sessions + 2 Education Sessions @$50 per class | $700 |
| 3-Month Follow-Up Review | $105 |
| Full GLA:D® Package Paid Upfront (fully inclusive of the above initial consultation, 3-month review and 14 group sessions) | $800 |
Medicare EPC Referrals and Private Health Insurance claiming may be used – contact us to discuss
How Do I Learn More?
Speak to one of our physiotherapist’s by calling 9455 1177 if you would like to know more about the GLA:D® Program Continuum Physiotherapy or are interested in participating. Alternatively click on the link below to book an appointment.
For more information about GLA:D® Australia, visit the GLA:D® Australia Website, or check out the GLA:D® Australia – Frequently Asked Questions.