How long does the program take?

Most people complete GLA:D® over 6 weeks (education sessions plus twice-weekly supervised exercise), with follow-up based on your needs.

Is GLA:D® only for osteoarthritis diagnosed on an X-ray?

Not always. Many people have symptoms before changes show clearly on imaging. We’ll assess your history, symptoms and function to confirm if GLA:D® is appropriate.

Can I still do GLA:D® if I’m in a flare-up or have significant pain?

Yes. Sessions are supervised and exercises are modified to suit your symptoms. The goal is to build capacity safely without pushing through unhelpful pain.

What should I bring to my initial assessment?

Wear comfortable clothing and bring any relevant scans or reports (if you have them). If you have a GP care plan or referral, bring that too.

GLA:D® Physio North Sydney

Q: Do I need a referral?

No referral is required. If you have a GP Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan (formerly EPC), you may be eligible for Medicare rebates.

Q: What if I’ve been told I need surgery?

GLA:D® is often recommended before surgery. Many people improve enough to delay surgery, and if surgery is still needed, stronger legs and better function can support recovery.

Q: Is this covered by private health?

In most cases, yes. Rebates depend on your level of extras and whether your insurer covers group physiotherapy or exercise sessions.

Evidence-based physiotherapy designed to reduce pain, improve function & help you stay active.

GLA:D® (Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark) is an internationally recognised physiotherapy program for hip and knee osteoarthritis, using structured education and neuromuscular exercise to improve pain, mobility, and quality of life.

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What Is GLA:D®?

GLA:D® (“Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark”) is a world-leading, evidence-based hip/knee Osteoarthritis physiotherapy program for people with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis. GLA:D Australia North Sydney combines targeted education with structured, supervised exercise designed to improve joint function, strength, and confidence with everyday movement.

Key evidence shows:

Reduced pain and improved quality of life
Better joint control & muscle strength
Reduced reliance on pain medication
Many participants avoid or delay surgery
Long-term functional gains beyond typical care

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How the GLA:D® Program Works

1. Initial Assessment

A comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, movement patterns, joint mechanics, and goals.

2. Education Sessions (2 × ~60 minutes)

Learn:

What osteoarthritis really is
How exercise reduces pain and improves function
Practical strategies to manage symptoms long-term

All education is tailored and interactive, not just a lecture.

3. Exercise Program (12 × 60 minutes)

Twice weekly, six weeks of supervised neuromuscular training designed to:

Build strength around the hip/knee
Improve joint stability
Enhance movement confidence and quality

Evidence shows this reduces pain and improves daily function.

4. Follow-Up & Long-Term Support

Re-assessment and tools to help you maintain gains beyond the program.

Who Is the GLA:D® Program For?

GLA:D® is ideal for adults who:

Have hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms
Experience pain or stiffness with walking, stairs, squatting, or kneeling
Want to reduce pain without surgery or heavy medication
Seek active, evidence-based treatment

(If you’re unsure, book an initial assessment — we can screen suitability.)

Why GLA:D® Works – Research & Evidence?

Exercise Is First-Line Treatment for Osteoarthritis

International and Australian clinical guidelines consistently recommend exercise and education as first-line treatment for hip and knee osteoarthritis — before medication, injections, or surgery.

GLA:D® was designed specifically to align with these best-practice guidelines.

Neuromuscular Training Improves Joint Control

GLA:D® focuses on neuromuscular exercise, not just strengthening.

This improves:

Joint stability
Movement quality
Load distribution through the hip and knee

Better control = less joint stress during daily activities like walking, stairs, and standing from sitting.

Clinically Meaningful Improvements Are Sustained

Data from GLA:D® registries demonstrate that many participants experience:

Reduced pain
Improved function
Improved quality of life

These improvements are often maintained at both 3 and 12 months, which is significant compared to short-term symptom relief approaches.

Proven Outcomes

Research from the GLA:D® Australia registries shows participants typically experience:

Significant reduction in pain
Better joint-related quality of life
Improved function and walking ability
Lower perceived need for surgery
GLA:D is supported by international and Australian clinical guidelines for OA first-line care.
GLA:D Australia data shows clinically meaningful improvement in pain/function at 3 and 12 months.

Many participants report clinically meaningful improvements at 3 and 12 months.