For people suffering from OA of both the hip and knee, a group of Danish researchers developed the GLA:D program.
The program's goal is to reduce pain and increase function.
Research in Denmark has found that the program can reduce symptom progression by 32%. The program is different because the education and exercises that are provided can be incorporated into everyday activities.
Through correcting daily movement patterns and strengthening, you will learn how to move your body more efficiently, prevent the progression of symptoms and reduce your pain.
What is the GLA:D program?
An exercise and education program developed to help those with hip and knee osteoarthritis.
Research has found that after completing the program participants have:
- a reduction in symptom progression,
- less pain killers per day,
- increased levels of physical activity,
- and a high level of satisfaction with the program.
Can I claim through health insurance?
Yes you can, if you have extras cover. The GLA:D group education and exercise sessions will be charged under a 560 treatment code. However, the initial assessment and follow up sessions are standard physiotherapy consultation sessions.
You may be eligible for bulk-billed visits via a Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan from your GP. However, these visits can only be used for the 1:1 sessions and are not valid for the group sessions.
What does it involve?
The program lasts for a total of 8 weeks, and includes education and exercise sessions. A GLA:D certified physiotherapist conducts the program. The overall aim of the program is to help you manage your OA symptoms.
The program consists of:
- An initial assessment to allow the physiotherapist to explain the program and collect baseline data;
- 2 education sessions where you will learn about Osteoarthritis, how the GLA:D intervention works, and ongoing management following the program;
- Twice weekly group neuromuscular training sessions for a six week period to improve muscle control of the joint.
- A follow-up assessment 3 months after the initial assessment where the baseline data will be reassessed.
- An online questionnaire completed 12 months following the initial assessment.
Am I eligible for the GLA:D program?
If you are an individual who has hip and/or knee joint problems that have been diagnosed as Osteoarthritis then you can enter the GLA;D program.
Exclusion criteria
- If you have joint problems as a result of a tumour, inflammatory joint disease, or pain as a result of a hip fracture.
- If you have other symptoms that are more significant than the osteoarthritis problems, such as:
- fibromyalgia
- chronic generalised pain
- If you do not understand English.
This does not exclude you from joining the GLA:D exercise program but does exclude you from the register. The register is being used to gather outcome data for an ongoing study to prove the effectiveness of the program.
You do not need a referral from your GP to participate in the GLA:D program. However, you may be eligible for a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) referral that can be used to cover some of the costs of the program.
Interested?
Please contact us on (03) 9796 7599 for further information or to book your initial appointment.