GLA:D for hip and knee osteoarthritis
GLA:D Program for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis in Moorabbin
Have you recently been diagnosed with hip or knee osteoarthritis and unsure what is out there to help with your pain, stiffness and limitations on movement that can interfere with daily activities? At Unbreakable Physiotherapy in Moorabbin, we have certified physiotherapists who can lead you through the GLA:D program. A program that has gained international recognition for its positive impact on individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis.
What is GLA:D?
Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark (GLA:D) is an emerging first line treatment for hip and knee osteoarthritis. It is a structured program combining education and exercise to empower participants with the skills and knowledge to manage their symptoms and reduced function associated with hip or knee osteoarthritis.
GLA:D Australia training consists of:
- An initial appointment with a physiotherapist explaining the program and collecting data on your current functional ability
- An education session which teaches you about OA, how the GLA:D exercises improve joint stability, and how to retain this improved joint stability outside of the program
- Group neuromuscular training sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve muscle control of the joint which leads to reduction in symptoms and improved quality of life. These sessions are supervised and delivered by your Physiotherapist at Unbreakable.
- Follow-up consultation to review your functional ability and guide you beyond the 6-week program
You do not need a referral from you Doctor to complete the GLA:D program for hip and knee osteoarthritis, however you may be eligible for a rebate from Medicare for some of the cost of the program, if deemed appropriate by your GP. Rebates for the physiotherapy consultations and exercise sessions can be claimed on private health insurance.
Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight loss as first line treatment for osteoarthritis. In Australia, treatment usually focuses on surgery and the GLA:D program offers an alternative that may avoid the need for surgery. Data collected from previous GLA:D participants across Australia showed significant reductions in pain, consumption of pain medication, reduction and perceived need for surgery, reduced sick leave and improvements in joint confidence.
The GLA:D Program here at Unbreakable Physiotherapy in Moorabbin is taken by our expert physiotherapists who have had specialist training in GLA:D. Speak with one of our physiotherapists to see if GLA:D is right for you.
For more information feel free to check out the GLA:D website at – https://gladaustralia.com.au/ or contact us on 9880-5998 to discuss with one of our trained physiotherapists.