Kinematics Team The GLA:D Program: a life-changer for those battling hip and knee osteoarthritis
October 12thOsteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition, is a common source of pain and disability for many individuals, particularly in the knee and hip joints. Living with the limitations of osteoarthritis can be challenging, but there’s hope in the form of the GLA:D program. This innovative initiative, which stands for “Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark,” is a tailored, evidence-based program that empowers individuals to manage and improve their condition while significantly enhancing their overall health and wellbeing.
Understanding the GLA:D Program
The GLA:D program was developed in Denmark and has gained global recognition as a highly effective approach for individuals living with knee and hip osteoarthritis. The program runs for six weeks and primarily focuses on education, group exercise and self management.
As part of the program, a physiotherapist will educate participants about osteoarthritis, its impact on the body, and how to manage the condition is at the heart of the program. Knowledge is power, and understanding the condition helps individuals take control of their health.
Exercise is a key element of the GLA:D program whereby participants attend twice weekly exercise classes over the course of the six weeks. It includes a combination of strength and neuromuscular training to improve joint stability, reduce pain, and enhance overall function. Participants learn safe and effective exercises to strengthen the muscles around the affected joints.
Self-management is about teaching individuals how to actively participate in their care. This aspect includes strategies to manage daily activities, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life.
The Benefits of the GLA:D Program for Health and Wellbeing
The GLA:D program offers a multitude of benefits to individuals dealing with knee and hip osteoarthritis:
1. Pain Reduction
Participants often experience a significant reduction in pain, which can be life-changing. The combination of education, exercises, and self-management techniques is particularly effective in alleviating discomfort associated with osteoarthritis.
2. Improved Functionality
One of the primary goals of the program is to enhance joint function. By strengthening the muscles around the knee and hip joints, participants can experience improved mobility and better overall functionality in their daily lives.
3. Enhanced Quality of Life
With reduced pain and improved functionality, individuals can enjoy a better quality of life. They can engage in activities they may have previously avoided due to pain or discomfort.
4. Psychological Wellbeing
Chronic pain can take a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. The GLA:D program’s emphasis on education and self-management techniques helps individuals better cope with the emotional aspects of living with osteoarthritis.
5. Delaying the Need for Surgery
For many individuals, knee or hip replacement surgery may be a potential future treatment. The GLA:D program has been shown to delay the need for surgery, providing a conservative approach to managing the condition.
The GLA:D Program at Kinematics
The GLA:D program is run by a certified GLA:D physiotherapist and runs for six weeks. The program involves:
- 2x 1:1 appointments with a GLA:D certified Physiotherapist.
- 2x educational sessions on osteoarthritis, risk factors, treatment options, and self- management strategies.
- 12x group exercise sessions over a six-week period.
To participate in the GLA:D program, individuals can contact and book with us directly. The program is suitable for people at different stages of osteoarthritis and can be tailored to their specific needs.
The GLA:D program is a game-changer for those living with knee and hip osteoarthritis. By combining education, exercise, and self-management techniques, it offers significant benefits such as pain reduction, improved functionality, enhanced quality of life, and psychological wellbeing.
If you or a loved one are living with osteoarthritis, get in touch with the Kinematics team, or you can book your initial GLA:D consult here.