GLA:D® Australia

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common lifestyle disease in individuals 65 years of age and older, but can also affect individuals as young as 30 years of age. Characterised by joint pain and stiffness, it’s a common and significant chronic disease, reducing mobility and causing considerable impact on quality of life.

Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark (GLA:D®), is an education and exercise program developed by researchers in Denmark for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

The program has been shown to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Run by our physiotherapists at the Health Hub Fortitude Valley.

GLA:D education and exercises can be applied to everyday activities, ensuring you develop skills to self-manage your osteoarthritis. By strengthening and correcting daily movement patterns, participants will train their bodies to move properly, prevent symptom progression and reduce pain.

The program consists of:

• An initial appointment with our physiotherapists detailing the specifics of the program and collecting data on your current functional ability.
• Two education sessions which teach you about OA, how the GLA:D™ Australia exercises improve joint stability, and how to retain this improved joint stability outside of the program yourself.
• Two Group neuromuscular training sessions a week for six weeks to improve muscle control of the joint.

The cost of the program can vary depending on location and size of the group. You do not need a referral from your Doctor, however you may be eligible for a rebate from Medicare for some of the cost of the program, if deemed appropriate by your GP.

The GLA:D program is designed to provide the optimal first-line treatment for hip and knee osteoarthritis. It offers a safer alternative to surgery by focusing on strengthening, improving confidence through exercise, staying active and preventing symptom progression while alleviating pain. Through tailored exercise therapy and education, the program empowers you to reclaim your life.

Please contact the North West Physiotherapy team here or call them directly on 07 3353 4111 for more details or to register your interest.