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Is Osteoarthritis causing you hip or knee pain? GLA:D Evidence based treatment for hip and knee arthritis

Is Osteoarthritis causing you hip or knee pain?

GLA:D Evidence based treatment for hip and knee arthritis

GLA:D®, or Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark, is an education and exercise program developed by researchers in Denmark for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms.  

What does GLA:DTM involve?

This education and exercise program reflects the latest evidence in osteoarthritis (OA) research. It also includes feedback from people with OA and trainers on what works in the real world to help patients manage OA symptoms.

GLA:DTM Australia training consists of:

  • A first appointment explaining the program and collecting data on your current functional ability
  • Two education sessions which teach you about OA, how the GLA:D™ Australia exercises improve joint stability, and how to retain this improved joint stability outside of the program
  • Group neuromuscular training sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve muscle control of the joint which leads to reduction in symptoms and improved quality of life
  Pottsville and Cabarita have partnered with GLA:D to offer this program at our clinics. The education sessions are free. The cost of the program is $440 and includes an initial and post program individual Physio session and 12 group GLA:D exercise sessions. It is strongly recommended to participate in the supervised program for optimal results. However if this is not possible you can do individual sessions which cost $35 supplemented by a home program . You do not need a referral from you Doctor, however you may be eligible for a rebate from Medicare for some of the cost of the program, if deemed appropriate by your GP. All sessions are claimable through private health funds.

Can I Participate in GLA:DTM Australia?

GLA:D™ Australia is a program for all individuals who experience any hip and/or knee osteoarthritis symptoms, regardless of severity. You may participate in the GLA:D™ Australia program if you have a hip or knee joint problem that resulted in visiting a health care provider.

You may not be able to participate in the GLA:D™ Australia program if:

  • You have other reasons for your hip and/or knee pain, including; tumor, inflammatory joint disease, result of hip fracture, soft tissue or connective tissue problems
  • You have other symptoms that are more pronounced than the osteoarthritis problems (for example chronic generalized pain or fibromyalgia)
  • You are unable to understand and communicate in English
 

OA Treatment in Australia

OA 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. Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight loss as first line treatment for osteoarthritis. GLA:DTM Australia program offers a proven and effective exercise and education based framework for the treatment of hip and knee OA.

Background of the GLA:D® Program

Research from the GLA:D® program in Denmark found symptom progression reduces by 32%. Other outcomes include a less pain, reduced use of joint related pain killers, and less people on sick leave. GLA:D® participants also reported high levels of satisfaction with the program and increased levels of physical activity 12 months after starting the program.  

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

   

Quick Facts

 
  • GLA:D has been proven to have dramatic effects in reducing pain of OA hip and knee by an average of 32%
 
  • The program is open to anyone with hip or knee OA, even if it is severe.
 
  • GLA:D has been shown to be far superior to other treatments such as anti-inflammatories, injections and arthroscopic surgery
 

Find out more about GLA:DTM

Pottsville and Cabarita Physiotherapy P: 02 6676 4000 E:  info@pottsvillephysio.com.au W: www.pottsvillephysio.com.au        

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OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE – Day to Day Tips

Day to day Tips 

 
  • Pace your activities through the day – don’t tackle all the physical jobs at once.
  • Wear low-heeled shoes with soft, thick soles (trainers are ideal). Thicker soles will act as shock absorbers.
  • Use a walking stick to reduce the weight and stress on your painful knee.
  • Use the handrail for support when climbing stairs.
  • Don’t keep your knee still in a bent position for too long, it will stiffen up.
  • Think about modifying your home, car or workplace to reduce unnecessary strain on your knee.
  • Learn to relax your muscles and let the tension out of your body.
  • Use heat/ice packs to help eases pain and stiffness.
  • Knee braces for osteoarthritis are available.
  • Speak to your doctor or therapist first for recommendations or referrals for any of the above.

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