The G.L.A.D® Program

The G.L.A.D® Program: Effective Osteoarthritis Management at Physio Group South-West

What is the G.L.A.D® Program?

The G.L.A.D® (Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark) program is an evidence-based initiative designed to help individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Developed by researchers, the G.L.A.D® program combines education and exercise to provide a comprehensive approach to osteoarthritis management.

The G.l.a.d® ProgramWhat Does the G.L.A.D® Program Involve?

The G.L.A.D® program at Physio Group South-West is a structured, multi-faceted program that includes:

  1. Initial Appointment

Your journey begins with a thorough initial appointment to:

  • Confirm your osteoarthritis diagnosis.
  • Assess your current function and mobility.
  • Create a personalized exercise program tailored to your specific needs.
  1. Education Sessions

Knowledge is power when it comes to managing osteoarthritis. The G.L.A.D® program includes two group education sessions, each lasting one hour, where you’ll learn about:

  • The diagnosis and implications of osteoarthritis.
  • Evidence-based treatment options available.
  • Risk factors and how to reduce them.
  • Self-management strategies to control symptoms and enhance daily living.
  1. Group Exercise Sessions

Regular, targeted exercise is crucial for managing osteoarthritis. The program includes:

  • 12 group exercise sessions, held twice a week for six weeks, focusing on exercises that build strength, increase flexibility, and improve joint function.
  1. Three-Month Review

After completing the initial phase of the program, you’ll have a three-month review with your physiotherapist to:

  • Reassess your progress and improvements.
  • Discuss the next steps and any necessary adjustments to your exercise plan.
  • Ensure you’re on track to achieve your goals.
  1. Ongoing Research Participation

G.L.A.D® is also an ongoing research project where participants have the unique opportunity to contribute to ongoing osteoarthritis research by sharing their results, helping to further advance the world’s understanding of osteoarthritis and improve future treatments and management.

Does the G.L.A.D® Program Work?

The G.L.A.D® program has demonstrated significant positive outcomes for participants, including:

  • 87% satisfaction rate among participants.
  • 25% reduction in hip pain and 29% reduction in knee pain after three months.
  • 39% decrease in hip pain medication use and 46% decrease in knee pain medication use after three months.
  • Sustained improvements at the twelve-month follow-up.
  • At twelve months, 5 out of 6 hips and 3 out of 4 knees that had considered surgery no longer felt the need for it due to their progress.

The G.l.a.d® ProgramCan I Participate in the G.L.A.D® Program?

G.L.A.D® Australia is a program for all individuals who experience hip and/or knee osteoarthritis, regardless of the severity of scan results or pain intensity.

Do I Need a Scan and a Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis from a Doctor?

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed without a scan. Your physiotherapist will be able to assess if your hip or knee pain is likely to be osteoarthritis.

What Are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis?

  • Morning pain and joint stiffness that improves with gradual movement.
  • Joint pain worsening with load (physical activities such as stairs, walking, gardening, or exercise).
  • Joint swelling or tenderness.
  • Difficulty twisting or turning.
  • Clicking or grinding symptoms.

Why Choose the G.L.A.D® Program at Physio Group South-West?

At Physio Group South-West, we are committed to providing top-notch care and support for individuals with osteoarthritis. Our G.L.A.D® program is facilitated by experienced physiotherapist Kaila, who is passionate about helping clients find effective solutions for their pain.

Get Started with the G.L.A.D® Program

Don’t let osteoarthritis control your life. Take the first step towards better joint health and improved quality of life by joining the G.L.A.D® program at Physio Group South-West.

Contact us today to schedule your initial appointment and learn more about how the G.L.A.D® program can benefit you.

For more information about G.L.A.D® Australia, visit www.gladaustralia.com.au.

G.L.A.D® Australia Frequently Asked Questions: gladaustralia.com.au/faq-for-people-with-oa