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Osteoarthritis of the Hip and Knee
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While there is no cure for OA, effective management strategies can significantly improve quality of life. One such evidence-based program is the G.L.A.D® (Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark) program. Developed by researchers, the G.L.A.D® program offers a structured approach to managing hip and knee osteoarthritis.
What Does the G.L.A.D® Program Involve?
The G.L.A.D® program is designed to educate and empower individuals with osteoarthritis, helping them to manage their symptoms and improve their overall function. Here’s a detailed look at what the program includes:
1. Initial Appointment The journey begins with an initial appointment to:
The G.L.A.D® program is designed to educate and empower individuals with osteoarthritis, helping them to manage their symptoms and improve their overall function. Here’s a detailed look at what the program includes:
1. Initial Appointment The journey begins with an initial appointment to:
- Confirm the diagnosis of osteoarthritis.
- Measure your current function through assessments.
- Prepare a personalized exercise program tailored to your needs.
2. Education Sessions Understanding your condition is a crucial part of managing it effectively. The G.L.A.D® program includes:
- Two group education sessions: Each session lasts 1 hour and covers essential topics such as:
- Osteoarthritis diagnosis and what it means.
- Evidence-based treatment options.
- Risk factors and how to mitigate them.
- Self-management strategies to control symptoms and improve quality of life.
3. Group Exercise Sessions Exercise is a cornerstone of osteoarthritis management. The G.L.A.D® program offers:
- 12 group exercise sessions: Conducted twice a week over six weeks, these sessions focus on exercises that improve strength, flexibility, and overall joint function.
4. Three-Month Review Tracking progress is vital to ensure the effectiveness of the program. The G.L.A.D® program includes:
- A three-month review with your physiotherapist to:
- Reassess your progress.
- Discuss the next steps in your management plan.
- Make any necessary adjustments to your exercise program.
5. Ongoing Research Participation Participants in the G.L.A.D® program also have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research, helping to advance our understanding of osteoarthritis management and improve future treatment strategies.
Does the G.L.A.D® Program Work?
The G.L.A.D® program has shown impressive results:
Does the G.L.A.D® Program Work?
The G.L.A.D® program has shown impressive results:
- 87% of participants report being satisfied or very satisfied with the program.
- At 3 months, participants experienced a 25% decrease in hip pain and a 29% decrease in knee pain.
- Pain medication use decreased by 39% for hips and 46% for knees after 3 months.
- These improvements were sustained at the 12-month follow-up.
- At 12 months, 5 out of 6 hips and 3 out of 4 knees that had considered surgery no longer desired it due to their improvements.
Why Choose the G.L.A.D® Program?
The G.L.A.D® program is more than just an exercise regimen; it’s a comprehensive approach to managing osteoarthritis through education, structured exercise, and continuous support. By participating in the G.L.A.D® program, you can take control of your osteoarthritis and work towards a better quality of life.
The G.L.A.D® program is more than just an exercise regimen; it’s a comprehensive approach to managing osteoarthritis through education, structured exercise, and continuous support. By participating in the G.L.A.D® program, you can take control of your osteoarthritis and work towards a better quality of life.
At our clinic, we are proud to offer the G.L.A.D® program, facilitated by our skilled physiotherapist Kaila, who is dedicated to helping you achieve the best outcomes. Kaila brings expertise and a passion for improving clients’ lives through effective osteoarthritis management.
Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to schedule your initial appointment and start your journey with the G.L.A.D® program. Together, we can help you manage your osteoarthritis and improve your quality of life.