Are you someone who suffers from arthritis and is looking for an effective treatment? Look no further! GLA:D® might be the solution you’ve been searching for.
Arthritis affects millions of individuals worldwide, causing joint pain and stiffness that can significantly impact daily life. Finding the right treatment can be challenging, as the options can be overwhelming.
One treatment option that has gained attention is GLA:D®. But what is it, and what benefits does it offer? Whether you are seeking pain relief or improved mobility, GLA:D® may be the key to regaining control over your daily life.
What is the GLA:D® program?
The GLA:D® (Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark) program is an exercise-based routine that aims to improve functional outcomes for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis.
The program focuses on increasing muscular strength and joint movement, both of which can help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms such as joint pain, loss of joint movement, and decreased functional capacity.
Patient education, exercise, and weight loss are the recommended first-line treatments for osteoarthritis according to current national and international clinical guidelines. There is no better program focusing on exercise and education than GLA:D® Australia.
GLA:D® is an eight-week group exercise and educational program designed in Denmark for those suffering from knee or hip osteoarthritis (OA).
The GLA:D® program consists of two main components:
- Education sessions: Participants learn about OA, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. They also learn about self-management strategies, such as how to reduce pain and stay active.
- Exercise: Participants attend group exercise sessions (individual sessions may be available) led by a physiotherapist. The exercises focus on strengthening the muscles around the hip and knee, as well as improving joint stability and movement.
The GLA:D® program is effective in reducing pain, improving function, and reducing the need for surgery in people with OA.
Who is eligible for the GLA:D® program
The program is intended for people who have mild to severe hip or knee osteoarthritis. Only a few people with osteoarthritis will be unfit for the program.
Whether you are young or elderly, active or idle, the GLA:D® program can help you move painlessly and improve your quality of life.
GLA:D® is for anyone who has hip and/or knee osteoarthritis symptoms, regardless of severity or x-ray results.
GLA:D® can also help people who desire to postpone joint replacement surgery or decrease the progression of osteoarthritis symptoms.
You may be ineligible to take part in the GLA:D® program if:
– Your hip and/or knee joint discomfort could also be caused by a tumour, inflammatory joint disease, a hip fracture, soft tissue or connective tissue disorders.
– You cannot understand and converse in English.
– You have other symptoms that are more severe than the osteoarthritis difficulties (for example, persistent generalised pain or fibromyalgia).
The key benefits of GLA:D®
Individuals with hip or knee osteoarthritis can benefit from the GLA:D® program in several ways, including:
Reduced pain: Studies have shown that GLA:D® can lead to significant reductions in pain, both at rest and during activity.
Improved range of motion: Regular exercise can help you improve your range of motion, allowing you to do routine tasks more easily.
Improved physical function: You’ll be able to do physical activities more comfortably and painlessly if you reduce joint pain and improve your range of motion.
Increased physical activity: The program encourages participants to become more active, which can help to improve overall health and fitness.
Reduced need for medication: GLA:D® can help people to reduce their reliance on pain medication.
Delayed or avoided surgery: In some cases, GLA:D® can help people to delay or avoid the need for joint replacement surgery.
Improved quality of life: Overall, GLA:D® can help people with OA to live a more active and fulfilling life.
Is the GLA:D® program effective?
According to research from the GLA:D® program in Australia, there is an average 36% reduction in pain, less analgesic usage, a lower perceived need for surgery, and a clinically significant improvement in joint confidence.
The education and exercises provided can be used for everyday activities, ensuring that participants learn the skills they need to manage their osteoarthritis independently.
Participants’ ability to become or stay active, limit symptom progression, and minimise discomfort improves as they strengthen and improve their confidence through exercise.
Final thoughts on GLA:D® and its benefits
GLA:D® is not just an exercise program but a life-changing opportunity for anyone struggling with hip or knee osteoarthritis. The benefits it offers in terms of pain management, improved mobility, and overall quality of life are truly remarkable.
If you or someone you know is living with osteoarthritis, don’t settle for a life of limitations. Embrace GLA:D® and let it guide you towards a future of strength, resilience, and freedom from pain. Your joints will thank you!
