GLA:D Back Program: An Evidence-Based Solution for Persistent Low Back Pain

Living with Chronic Back Pain

Chronic back pain can affect every part of your life—from getting out of bed in the morning to completing a workday or enjoying time with family. Many people fear that movement will make things worse or that surgery is inevitable.

The GLA:D Back Program at Exercise Matters in Noosaville offers a proven, research-backed approach to reduce pain, improve function, and help you feel more in control. It combines education and supervised exercise, tailored to your level and goals.

What Is the GLA:D Back Program?

GLA:D Back is a clinically designed program developed in Denmark to help people with persistent or recurring low back pain. It focuses on:

• Improved understanding of back pain through education

• Targeted neuromuscular exercise to improve movement patterns, strength, and confidence

Participants report less pain, fewer flare-ups, and better ability to self-manage their condition.

Who Is It For?

GLA:D Back is ideal for:

• Adults with chronic or recurring low back pain (3+ months)

• People who fear movement or have become less active due to pain

• Those who want to avoid surgery or reduce reliance on medication

• Anyone struggling with functional activities like lifting, sitting, or walking

Program Structure at Exercise Matters

1. Initial Individual Assessment

• Movement screening and back-specific function testing

• Discussion of history, flare-ups, and limitations

  
  

2. Education Sessions

You’ll learn about:

• Why back pain occurs (without fear-based myths)

• How the back responds to movement and stress

• Ways to build resilience through exercise and pacing

  
  

3. Supervised Exercise Classes or individual appointments (2x per week for 8 weeks)

• Core stability and trunk control

• Functional strength for daily movements

• Progressive challenges tailored to your comfort

  
  

4. Ongoing Monitoring and Reassessment

• Pre- and post-program outcome tracking

• Goal setting and planning for long-term self-management

Does It Work?

Yes. GLA:D Back is backed by clinical trials and growing international support. Research shows:

• Significant reductions in pain intensity and fear-avoidance behaviours

• Improved functional capacity and quality of life

• Increased confidence in movement and long-term self-management (Jakobsen et al., 2022)

Case Study: Michael, 54, with Chronic Low Back Pain

Michael had struggled with low back pain for over 5 years. He was avoiding activities like gardening and cycling and relied heavily on medication. He was hesitant to move for fear of making it worse.

After 8 weeks in the GLA:D Back program:

• His pain decreased from 6/10 to 2/10

• He returned to daily walks and light cycling

• He reported feeling more confident lifting, bending, and sitting for longer

Michael continues to use the exercises and pacing strategies he learned in the program.

Why Choose Exercise Matters?

• Accredited GLA:D Back providers

• Experienced team

• Individual assessments and personalised progression

• Welcoming, supportive clinical environment

Frequently Asked Questions

1. 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).

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Get Started Today

Take control of your back pain with education and movement.

📞 Call (07) 5448 3532 🌐 www.exercisematters.healthcare

References:

• Jakobsen MD et al. (2022). Effectiveness of a standardised care package for back pain: the GLA:D Back trial. BMJ Open.

• Kent PM et al. (2015). Managing non-specific low back pain. BMJ.

• Hodges PW & Moseley GL. (2003). Pain and motor control of the spine. J Electromyogr Kinesiol.

• Saragiotto BT et al. (2016). Physical therapies for low back pain: systematic review. Br J Sports Med.

• Foster NE et al. (2018). Prevention and treatment of low back pain: evidence-based guidelines. Lancet.