GLA:D PROGRAM
Exercise is Medicine
Research and the GLA:D Program
Research from the GLA:D® program in Australia (GLA:D® Australia Annual Report 2020) found an average reduction in pain of 27% (hip) and 33% (knee), improved quality of life by 20% (hip) and 29% (knee), and reduced usage of pain medication by 45% (hip) and 49% (knee). It was also found that less people desired surgery after completing the program.
GLA:D® Australia continues to collect information from participants so that it can keep working towards improving access to the best possible care for people with osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis Treatment in Australia
Osteoarthritis is the most common lifestyle disease in individuals 65 year of age and older, but can also affect individuals as young as 30 years of age.
In Australia, treatment usually focuses on medications and surgery. The GLA:D® Australia program offers a safe alternative that may reduce your need for medications, avoid the need for surgery, and improve your ability to participate more actively in work and recreational activities.
Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight management as first line treatment for everyone with osteoarthritis.
The GLA:D Australia program consists of:
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An initial appointment to explain the program and measure your current functional ability
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Education sessions which teach you about OA, its risk factors, treatment options, and self-management strategies.
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Exercise sessions at least twice a week for eight weeks to improve your control of the joint, your confidence in the joint and your strength
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A review at 3-months with your clinician to discuss progress and goals, and re-measure your functional ability
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If selected for the GLA:D research program, the additional completion of a questionnaire on registration with the program, and then again at 3 and 12 months after registration to measure changes in areas such as pain, function, quality of life, and medication use.