Blog article
How the GLA:D Program may help with knee and hip osteoarthritis
But there’s good news: there’s a program that’s been shown to reduce pain, improve movement, help people feel more confident managing their symptoms, and in some cases, delaying or avoiding surgery altogether.3 It’s called the GLA:D Program, and if you’re an eligible HBF member, you could access it at no extra cost.¹
We spoke with HBF Physio physiotherapist Andrew Chen to find out more.
What is the GLA:D Program?
GLA:D (short for Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark) is an evidence-based education and exercise program designed specifically for people with knee or hip osteoarthritis. It’s delivered by specially trained physiotherapists and accredited exercise physiologists over a period of six weeks.
Participants attend two education sessions and 12 supervised group exercise sessions. These sessions are designed to improve strength, mobility, and confidence in the affected joints – while also teaching self-management strategies that can be used long after the program finishes.
“GLA:D gives people the tools to manage their symptoms and feel more in control of their condition,” says Andrew. “We focus on building strength and confidence – not just in the body, but in the way people think about their joint health.”
Why choose the GLA:D Program over other treatments?
While cortisone injections or surgery may seem like the only option, guidelines recommend education and exercise as the first line of treatment for osteoarthritis.2 That’s exactly what GLA:D is built on.
“Surgery has its place, but it shouldn’t be the first step,” says Andrew. “We want people to try evidence-based exercise therapy first – and in many cases, that’s enough to significantly reduce symptoms.”
Choosing Wisely, an initiative funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, is a great first port of call for information to help you make informed decisions about your health care.
When it comes to osteoarthritis, Choosing Wisely recommend to “not perform arthroscopy… for patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee and/or degenerate meniscal tear.
“There is consistent evidence to indicate that arthroscopic lavage and/or debridement… is no more effective than placebo surgery or non-operative alternatives.”
Learn more: Why knee arthroscopy may not be the answer to osteoarthritis
What does the GLA:D Program involve?
Once enrolled, you’ll start with an individual assessment with your physio, who’ll measure your current movement and talk through your goals.
You’ll then take part in:
- 2 education sessions about osteoarthritis, risk factors, and treatment options
- 12 group exercise sessions (twice a week for six weeks)
- A follow-up assessment to track progress and discuss next steps
- Long-term outcome checks at 3 and 12 months after starting
- Up to 33% reduction in pain intensity
- Less reliance on medication
- Improved joint-related quality of life
- Greater physical function and walking speed
- More confidence and independence in daily activities
The exercises you learn are practical and designed to be applied in everyday life. “We tailor the program to each person’s ability and pace,” Andrew explains. “The exercises are safe, doable at home, and aimed at helping you move better with less pain.”
What kind of results can I expect with the GLA:D Program?
The numbers speak for themselves. After completing the GLA:D® Program, participants reported:3
And the benefits don’t stop after six weeks. At the 12-month mark, most participants continued to report improvements in pain, function, and quality of life – with many even deciding to delay or avoid surgery altogether.3
“We often see people go from struggling with simple tasks to feeling strong and independent again,” Andrew says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see those shifts.”
Is the GLA:D Program right for you?
If you’re ready to feel stronger, move better and live with less pain, the GLA:D® Program could help you. It’s evidence-based, practical, and fully covered for eligible HBF members.¹
“We’ve seen people of all ages and fitness levels benefit from GLA:D – including those who’ve lived with pain for years,” says Andrew. “If joint pain is getting in the way of your daily life, this program is absolutely worth exploring.”
Bonus if you're in WA: All HBF Physio locations offer the GLA:D Program. With plenty of clinics across Perth, all open six days a week, there’s a time and place that works for you.
Not in WA? No problem. There are plenty of approved GLA:D providers to choose from. Find a provider.
What the GLA:D Program cost?
Other than your time, it won’t cost you anything to take part in the GLA:D Program if you hold an eligible level of HBF hospital cover and meet the program eligibility criteria.1 You can quickly find out if you’re eligible by phoning 1300 886 513.
