Why the Australian GLA:D® Program is a Game-Changer for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis
GLA:D® Hip and Knee Program
The BEST first treatment for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Management
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common lifestyle condition affecting individuals 65 years and older, but it can also affect those as young as 30. This prevalent joint condition often leads to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility, especially in the hips and knees. In Australia, the GLA:D® (Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark) program has emerged as a highly effective method for managing hip and knee osteoarthritis. At Kaylana, we are excited to offer this innovative program to our clients.
In this blog post, we will explore the key elements of the Australian GLA:D® program, its proven effectiveness and the positive impact it’s having on individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis. Discover how the GLA:D® program is making a significant difference in managing this common joint condition.
What is the GLA:D® Program?
GLA:D® is an evidence-based education and exercise program aimed at improving pain, function and quality of life for people living with hip and knee osteoarthritis. This 6 week program focuses on providing individuals with the knowledge, tools and support they need to effectively manage their OA and improve their quality of life.
Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight loss (if needed) as first line treatment for osteoarthritis.
GLA:D® Australia is a not-for-profit initiative led by La Trobe University. The program has been proven effective for individuals of all age groups experiencing mild, moderate, or severe osteoarthritis, leading to pain reduction, improved mobility and an enhanced quality of life. In many cases, it can even prevent the need for surgical interventions such as joint replacements.
Studies conducted in Scandinavian nations have also demonstrated that individuals who undergo the GLA:D® program prior to a total knee joint replacement tend to experience faster recovery times. Similar positive outcomes, often referred to as 'Prehab,' have been observed for total hip replacement candidates as well.
At Kaylana, we are proud to offer this innovative program!
Find us in Hurstville, just a 2 minute walk from the Station.
Key Components of the GLA:D® Program
The Australian GLA:D® program encompasses three key components that are tailored to the specific needs of individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis. These components include:
1. Education
GLA:D® consists of two sessions of patient education delivered by trained physiotherapists and accredited exercise physiologists. These include: What is osteoarthritis, risk factors, symptoms, introduction to treatment, exercise, activities in daily living, coping and self-help tools.
2. Supervised Exercise, tailored to you
The GLA:D® program includes 12 sessions of supervised, individualised exercise therapy over a 6-8 week period, delivered by trained physiotherapists and accredited exercise physiologists. Class sizes are small and each exercise is tailored to the individual’s ability, as assessed by the clinician. Participants are encouraged to report any discomfort or pain during exercises. Before starting the program, individuals will have an initial appointment with their clinician to explain the program, discuss goals, and gather baseline measures to track your progress over time.
3. Support and Monitoring
Participants receive ongoing support from their healthcare professionals where we monitor your progress, provide guidance and address any concerns related to your osteoarthritis management plan. There is a follow-up with your physiotherapist at 3 months to discuss your achievements, re-measure functional ability and review your self-management plan after the completing the program. GLA:D® participants are also asked to fill out baseline osteoarthritis questionnaires and then repeat them at 3 months and 12 months.
Effectiveness of the GLA:D® Program
What does the research show and how will it help me?
Research has shown that the GLA:D® program has been very effective in improving pain, function, and overall quality of life for individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis. Participants have reported reduced pain levels, increased joint function, and enhanced confidence in managing their condition. The combination of education, exercise and ongoing support has proven to be instrumental in empowering individuals to take an active role in their osteoarthritis management.
One year after completing GLA:D® Australian participants reported:
— 23-31% average pain reduction
— 46-50% participants reduced pain medication use
— 24-38% improvement in joint-related quality of life
(From GLA:D® Australia Hip and Knee Annual Report 2023).
Significant improvements that matter to you
The Australian GLA:D® program offers several benefits for individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis. These include:
— Increased understanding of osteoarthritis and its management
— Improved joint function and mobility
— Enhanced ability to perform daily activities with reduced pain and discomfort
— Greater confidence in utilising exercise as a tool for managing osteoarthritis symptoms
— Supportive network and guidance from healthcare professionals
In Conclusion
The Australian GLA:D® program has emerged as a valuable resource for individuals living with hip and knee osteoarthritis. Its evidence-based approach, emphasis on education and exercise, and tailored support have contributed to positive outcomes for program participants. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to effectively manage their osteoarthritis, the GLA:D® program is making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by this common joint condition.
Take the first step towards a better quality of life. Contact us at Kaylana Wellness Collective, Physiotherapist Hurstville to learn more about the GLA:D® program and how we can help you.