How Does GLA:D® Help?
There are many reasons why GLA:D® and similar exercise programs can help reduce pain and improve mobility, because exercise affects a person in a variety of ways: from improving bone and muscle strength to elevating mood. Exercise itself is a recognised treatment for some chronic health conditions and reduces the risk of many others.
The exercises done in GLA:D® target joint stability, muscle strength and confidence with movement.
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.
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 aboutOA, 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.
1 in 5 Australians (22%) over the age of 45 have osteoarthritis.
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 kneepain, including: tumor, inflammatory jointdisease, results of leg fracture, soft tissue orconnective tissue problems
- You have other symptoms that are morepronounced than the osteoarthritis problems (forexample chronic generalized pain or fibromyalgia)
- You are unable to understand and communicatein English
However, there may be parts of the program that will still be helpful for you. Your clinician will discuss your best treatment options with you as part of the assessment process.
Expression of interest
Complete the form and one of our friendly team will be in touch to discuss your options with the GLA:D program.
