GLA:D® Program for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis
At South Yarra Spine and Sports Medicine, we are proud to offer the renowned GLA:D program, in partnership with Bupa, to help individuals suffering from hip or knee osteoarthritis. This evidence-based program aims to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance your quality of life.
What Is GLA:D?
The GLA:D program includes two informative education sessions where you’ll gain a better understanding of osteoarthritis and how to manage it effectively. Following these sessions, you will participate in 12 supervised group exercise classes spread over six weeks. These tailored exercises are designed to strengthen your muscles, improve joint function, and alleviate the discomfort associated with osteoarthritis.
Benefits of GLA:D
As a participant in the GLA:D program, you can expect:
- Reduced pain and decreased reliance on pain medication
- Improved joint mobility and confidence
- A potential alternative to hip or knee replacement
Discover GLA:D at South Yarra Spine and Sports Medicine Today
The GLA:D program is available at no extra cost to eligible Bupa* members with hip or knee osteoarthritis. For non-Bupa members interested in this program, we offer private payment options.
Please feel free to reach out to us for more information on program fees and eligibility. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a pain-free life, get in touch with us today!
FAQs
What is GLA:D Australia?
The GLA:D Australia team was developed based on extensive research conducted by a clinical team in Denmark in 2012. It stands for “Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark”.
Sessions are led by local healthcare professionals like us who have undergone training provided by GLA:D Australia, who is responsible for the running, development, and research of the GLA:D program here in Australia.
Who is GLA:D Best Suited To?
The GLA:D® Australia program is designed to be of assistance to individuals across various age groups who are dealing with mild, moderate, or severe osteoarthritis. This comprehensive program is proven to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and improve overall quality of life.
In many instances, participation in GLA:D has successfully helped individuals sidestep the need for surgical interventions such as joint replacements.
What Does a Typical Session Involve?
A standard GLA:D Australia session comprises two essential components:
1. Education Sessions: During these sessions, your clinician will impart the latest research findings and insights. This is your chance to engage in discussions, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of osteoarthritis management. These informative sessions provide valuable knowledge sharing opportunities for participants and clinicians alike.
2. Exercise Regimen: GLA:D exercises consist of a structured set of 10 exercises, including warm-up and cool-down routines. The primary objective of these exercises is to enhance strength and functionality around your hip and knee joints.
Each session is conducted in small group settings, typically consisting of four to six participants. Participants perform the same exercises tailored to their specific fitness levels.
Our GLA:D clinicians here at South Yarra Spine and Sports Medicine are proficient in adapting the program to suit your individual needs.
What Should I Wear?
The initial education sessions do not require a specific type of clothing. For the exercise regimen, however, you can expect to be moving around during your sessions. For these, we recommend wearing something stretchy and comfortable that allows for free range of movement.
Leggings, shorts, and exercise gear are good options for your session. You may also wish to bring a water bottle and a towel.
How Long Does the GLA:D Program Last?
Following the education sessions, the GLA:D exercise program runs over a period of 6 weeks. During this time, you’ll engage in 12 group exercise classes.
Depending on your progress and goals, you may wish to continue treatment with us following the conclusion of the GLA:D program through exercise physiology sessions. Your clinician will give you the best advice on further treatment.
*Fund, policy, waiting periods and program eligibility rules apply including, being 18 years or older with diagnosed, symptomatic hip or knee osteoarthritis and holding a domestic Bupa Hospital product that includes joint replacement cover. Customers must be referred in writing to the program by a treating physiotherapist and must not have participated in the GLA:D Program or the Osteoarthritis Healthy Weight for Life Program funded by Bupa in the previous 12 months.