GLA:D Program for Knee and Hip Arthritis

What is the GLA:D® program?

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 brought to Australia in 2016 to help Australians with hip or knee osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common lifestyle disease in individuals 65 year of age and older, but can also affect individuals as young as 30 years of age.

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.

Is the GLA:D® program suitable for me?

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 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 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.

Doctor referrals aren’t required.

What is the cost?

You will need to attend an Initial Physiotherapy Appointment so the physiotherapist can explain the program and measure your current functional ability prior to commencing.

If you are suitable and decide to commence the GLA:D® Australia program, the cost is $650. This includes:

  • 2x 1 hour education sessions which teach you about OA, its risk factors, treatment options, and self-management strategies

  • 1 hour group exercise sessions, 2x a week for 6 weeks to improve your control of the joint, your confidence in the joint and your strength

  • A review at 3-months with your physiotherapist 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

Eligible participants may be able to use Medicare funding to cover costs of assessments. Private health claims should be discussed with your insurer.

Payment of $650 in full prior to commencing the GLA:D® Australia program is required

Interested?

If you would like more information, feel free to reach out to us on 6183 1865 or email us hello@kinimaphysio.com.au.

Alternatively, you can visit the GLA:D® Australia website https://gladaustralia.com.au/