Do I need imaging or a diagnosis to start?

No. GLA:D Back is designed for people with non-specific low back pain. We assess your suitability through movement screening and discussion. Scans are not required unless there are red flag symptoms (which we will screen for).

Is this program safe for people with a history of disc injury?

Yes. GLA:D Back is structured to gradually restore movement and confidence. It is safe for people with past disc bulges, degenerative changes, or flare-ups.

Can I keep doing other forms of exercise during the program?

Yes. We can help you modify other exercise types as needed. Many participants return to gym or group classes with more confidence and fewer limitations.

Will I need to continue the exercises after the program ends?

Consistency is key. We provide you with home-based options and a plan for ongoing activity to maintain your progress.

Is the program covered by private health or Medicare?

Yes. We accept Medicare (EPC/CDM referrals), DVA, private health, and NDIS participants. We can help with eligibility and paperwork.

Can exercise really help spinal stenosis?

Yes. Targeted movement reduces nerve pressure, improves blood flow, and strengthens the spine’s support system.

Should I be worried about damaging my back further?

No. With guidance, movement is safe and beneficial. GLA:D Back teaches how to move confidently and reduce fear-avoidance.

Not necessarily. Many people with spinal stenosis manage their symptoms successfully with conservative care like GLA:D Back.

How is this different from regular exercise classes?

GLA:D Back is a clinically supervised program based on back pain science, tailored to people with persistent or complex spine conditions.

Every year, 4 out of 10 people experience back pain
GLAD Back is based on the latest scientific evidence. It prioritises education (knowledge and tools) and movement (exercise) to help you work towards your goals.

GLAD Back Program

GLAD Back Program is a treatment option for patients with long-term or recurrent low back pain that affects everyday life and function. The program combines both education and exercise to improve self-management skills in patients with back pain. The purpose of GLAD® BACK is to help patients manage their back pain better themselves through a well-described and structured course of treatment.

GLAD Back has the potential to positively impact patients, by encouraging easy and enjoyable exercise, as well as exploring various or different ways of moving rather than ‘moving correctly.’

This program is unique in that the education and exercises provided can be applied to everyday activities. By strengthening and exploring various movement patterns, participants will train their bodies to move properly, prevent symptom progression and reduce pain.

What does GLAD Back Program involve?

GLAD® Back is a program that implements guideline recommendations, through standardized patient pain education and exercise therapy for people with persistent or recurrent low back pain. GLAD® Back consists of two individual pain education sessions that initiate the program, and is followed by a course of eight weeks of supervised group exercises – twice a week.

GLAD® Back is delivered at Exercise Matters by one of our certified GLAD® Back clinicians. The initial consultation forms the foundation of the GLAD program. It entails the assessment, education, and exercise plan which are then individually graduated over the course of 8 weeks. Please contact Carl at admin@exercisematters.healthcare if you have any questions or would like to book in to undertake this program.

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR ???

Can I participate in GLA:D Back?

GLAD® Back Australia is a program for all individuals 18 years of age and over who experience persistent or recurrent low back pain, for more than 3 month’s duration.

You may participate in the GLAD® Back program if you have persistent or recurrent low back pain that resulted in visiting a healthcare provider. The decision to enrol in GLAD® Back is at the discretion of the clinician in a dialogue with the patient.

You may not be able to participate in the GLAD® Back program if you:

Have other reasons for your low back pain (for example, pregnancy, tumour, inflammatory joint disease, nerve, soft tissue or connective tissue problems)
Have other symptoms that are more pronounced than the low back pain problems (for example, chronic generalized pain or fibromyalgia)
Are currently participating in a supervised exercise or rehabilitation program or enrolled in another interventional clinical trial.
Unable to understand and communicate in English.

What You Can Expect from the GLAD Back Program

The GLAD back program is all about helping you take control of your back pain in a way that feels manageable and real. Right from the start, you’ll learn what’s going on with your back and how to handle it in everyday life. The exercises are designed to suit your pace, gradually building your strength without pushing you too hard or causing more pain. What’s great is that this program focuses on movements you actually use every day, not just gym stuff, so you get stronger where it really counts. Plus, you’ll be part of a supportive group that understands what you’re going through, making the journey less lonely. The GLAD back program aims to give you the tools and confidence to live with less pain and more freedom.

Still unsure? Please contact the clinic to book an assessment

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