GLA:D Canada Program

Based on Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark (GLA:D®), The GLA:D Canada program is a nationwide initiative that follows the current recommendation for the treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis.

The program is designed for individuals experiencing stiff and/or painful knees and hips, or those diagnosed with knee and/or hip osteoarthritis. It stands out for its evidence-based approach, combining education and exercise to enhance well-being.

Sessions focus on movement control, proper posture, and functional exercises designed to build muscular strength. Exercises can be adapted to individual needs.

This 7-8 week exercise and education program is for individuals with stiff and/or painful knees and hips, or those with knee and/or hip osteoarthritis. By strengthening and correcting daily movement patterns, participants train their bodies to move with improved control and alignment to prevent symptom progression and reduce pain.

This program guides clients in understanding their ailment, identifying risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and discovering effective strategies for everyday management. Let's delve into the program's goals with a closer look.

Education sessions cover osteoarthritis understanding, risk factors, symptoms, management strategies, current treatment options, the role of exercise, and coping with daily challenges. We also delve into to all the great questions that participants have and have a great time doing it!

Participants gain insights into the risk factors contributing to osteoarthritis development and learn to recognize and understand its symptoms. The program offers strategies for effectively managing and mitigating osteoarthritis' impact, along with up-to-date information on the latest and most effective treatments.

Emphasizing the role of exercise, the program highlights its significance in managing osteoarthritis. Additionally, it provides practical guidance on coping with the daily challenges associated with the condition.

Over a 6-7 week period, participants engage in 60-minute group exercise sessions twice a week. The primary focus is on enhancing movement control, mastering proper posture, and building muscular strength through functional exercises.

Through data collection, we track outcomes at the initial visit, 3 months, and 12 months after program initiation. This invaluable information not only shapes individualized care, but contributes to the ongoing enhancement of the GLA:D® Canada program for individuals with osteoarthritis nationwide.

Research stemming from GLA:D® in Denmark reveals a multitude of benefits, with participants experiencing increased physical activity through:

The management pyramid graphic below provides a visual representation of recommended treatment approaches, based on symptom severity. You can learn more about the management pyramid by visiting the GLA:D Canada website.