What Is the GLA:D® Program?
GLA:D®, short for Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark, is a trusted, evidence-based education and exercise program developed in Denmark and now offered at Wisdom Physio in Claremont. Tailored specifically to help those with hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA), GLA:D® empowers you to take charge of your joint health with the support of certified physiotherapists.
Structure: What Does a Typical GLA:D® Journey Look Like?
- Initial Assessment
Begin with a one-on-one session where a physiotherapist will assess your current functional capabilities and walk you through the program structure. - Education Sessions (2 sessions)
Learn about OA—its risk factors, progression, and most importantly, self-management strategies to ease pain and improve mobility. - Supervised Exercise Classes (12 sessions over 6 weeks)
Twice-weekly, one-hour sessions focusing on neuromuscular control, hip and knee strength, and movement confidence—designed to translate into real-life activity improvements. - Progress Review (at 3 months)
We’ll check in to measure improvements, reflect on your goals, and plan next steps. - Ongoing Tracking
Participants complete questionnaires at baseline, 3 months, and 12 months to monitor pain levels, function, medication use, and quality of life.
Real Benefits: What Can You Expect?
1. Reduced Pain — Up to 33–36%
Many participants experience a significant reduction in pain intensity, with benefits continuing well beyond the program.
2. Improved Mobility & Joint Function
Through targeted strength and neuromuscular exercises, you can expect improved joint stability, flexibility, and confidence—making everyday movements easier.
3. Reduced Reliance on Pain Medication
With improved function and reduced symptoms, many people find they can reduce or even stop using painkillers.
4. Delay—or Even Avoid—Surgery
For many, the GLA:D® program offers a powerful non-surgical alternative. Participants often report that joint replacement surgery is no longer needed or can be postponed.
5. Boosted Confidence & Quality of Life
You’ll feel stronger, more independent, and more active—even a year after starting.
6. Expert Guidance with Lasting Impact
Led by GLA:D®-certified physiotherapists, the program equips you with lifelong skills to self-manage your joint health.
Why GLA:D® Stands Out
- Evidence Meets Everyday Activity – The exercises and knowledge you gain are practical, real-world, and designed to fit into your daily life.
- Goal-Oriented & Measurable – Your progress is tracked from the start, giving you confidence in your results.
- Globally Recognised – Endorsed as a gold-standard first-line treatment for osteoarthritis by health experts worldwide.
Ready to Get Moving? Here’s How to Start
- Join a Free Info Session
Take the first step toward a pain-free life by attending one of our information sessions. - Book Your Initial Assessment
Meet with one of our GLA:D®-trained physiotherapists at Wisdom Physio to tailor your plan. - Check Your Health Fund Cover
Many health funds provide rebates for the GLA:D® program—check with us or your insurer.
In Summary: A Program That Moves With You
GLA:D® is more than an exercise class—it’s a transformative journey. You’ll gain:
- Proven pain relief and joint function improvement
- Practical, sustainable lifestyle tools
- Empowerment to live confidently and independently
If you’re ready to take control of your hip or knee osteoarthritis and reclaim your life, the GLA:D® Program at Wisdom Physio is here for you.
Find out more about our program here, or call (08) 6389 2947 or click here to book online.
