Imagine waking up and feeling that sharp, aching knee pain just getting out of bed, or skipping your daily walk because your hip doesn’t feel stable. For many people living with osteoarthritis, this discomfort isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s something that affects every part of daily life.
At Enhance Physio Mulgrave, we’re proud to offer a new pathway to help manage these challenges. The GLA:D® program — a globally recognised, evidence-based education and exercise initiative for hip and knee osteoarthritis — is now available at our Mulgrave clinic, led by physiotherapist Joel Boyd-Skinner.
In this article, we’ll explain what the GLA:D® program is, how it may support you in managing osteoarthritis, and what to expect when joining the program at Enhance Physio.
What is the GLA:D® Program?
GLA:D® stands for Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark, where the program was first developed. It is now delivered across Australia by specially trained physiotherapists and is backed by national and international research.
The program combines:
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Education sessions to help you better understand your condition and pain
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Structured neuromuscular exercises focused on improving joint control and function
GLA:D® aligns with current clinical guidelines, which recommend exercise and education as first-line treatments for osteoarthritis — before considering surgery or long-term medication use.
📚 To learn more about the national rollout of GLA:D® in Australia, visit gladaustralia.com.au
Who Is It For?
The GLA:D® program is designed for individuals who:
- Have hip or knee osteoarthritis, or symptoms consistent with OA
- Experience joint stiffness, pain during activity, or difficulty with daily movements
- Want to explore non-surgical, movement-based options for long-term joint health
- Are ready to take an active role in managing their condition
No referral is needed — you can contact our team directly to see if the program is a good fit for your goals and current condition.
What to Expect in the Program
When you join the GLA:D® program at Enhance Physio Mulgrave, here’s what’s involved:
1. Initial Assessment
You’ll begin with a one-on-one session with your GLA:D-certified physiotherapist — in Mulgrave, this is Joel Boyd-Skinner. This session includes:
- Baseline strength and mobility testing
- Review of your joint health and movement patterns
- Goal-setting tailored to your lifestyle and priorities
2. Education Sessions
Two small-group education sessions will help you:
- Understand how osteoarthritis affects your joints
- Learn how movement can help manage pain
- Gain strategies for self-managing flare-ups and joint loading
3. Supervised Exercise Classes
You’ll attend twice-weekly sessions over six weeks, with exercises focused on:
- Building strength
- Improving movement control
- Supporting functional tasks like walking, stairs, and balance
4. Follow-Up
At the end of the program, you’ll be re-assessed to track your progress and plan your next steps — whether that’s continued physiotherapy, home exercise, or ongoing support.
📍 Find us at Enhance Physio Mulgrave – view our clinic location here
Meet Your GLA:D® Program Lead: Joel Boyd-Skinner
Joel is an experienced physiotherapist who brings warmth, empathy, and a practical approach to patient care. He has a strong interest in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and believes in empowering people to move with confidence — regardless of age or diagnosis.
“The goal is not just to reduce pain. It’s to help you feel capable in your own body again.” – Joel Boyd-Skinner
You can learn more about Joel and his clinical approach here.
Does It Work?
GLA:D® has been shown to help many people with osteoarthritis reduce symptoms and improve daily function.
According to GLA:D Australia’s national data registry, participants have reported:
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Up to 30% reduction in pain
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Improvements in walking speed and strength
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Greater confidence in daily movements
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Less reliance on medication
These outcomes reflect what’s been seen internationally as well, with significant gains in joint function and quality of life after completing the program.
📖 You can read the research behind GLA:D® Australia here
Are There Any Risks?
GLA:D® is safe for most people with osteoarthritis and is delivered by physiotherapists trained in managing joint health. However:
- Results vary between individuals
- People with severe structural damage may need additional treatment or referral
- Regular attendance is key to getting the most out of the program
- Continuing exercise beyond the 6-week program is encouraged for long-term benefit
If you have other health conditions or concerns, your physiotherapist will work with you to adapt the program to your needs.
📗 Healthdirect Australia also offers general information on osteoarthritis management — view it here
Why Choose Enhance Physio Mulgrave?
Choosing Enhance Physio means you’ll receive:
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Personalised care from a certified GLA:D® clinician
- A small-group environment with attention to your individual needs
- Ongoing support to maintain your progress beyond the program
- Convenient access to a trusted team at our modern Mulgrave clinic
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing osteoarthritis for years, our goal is to help you move well, stay active, and feel confident in your everyday life.
Final Thoughts
Osteoarthritis doesn’t have to mean giving up the things you love. With the right support, movement can become part of your solution — not something to fear.
The GLA:D® program at Enhance Physio Mulgrave offers you a structured, supportive pathway to improve strength, mobility, and quality of life — and it’s available now.
Ready to take the next step?
Book an appointment with Joel Boyd-Skinner at Enhance Physio Mulgrave
Or call us today to see if GLA:D® is the right fit for you.
Explore the GLA:D Program at Enhance Physio
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