GLA:D Program
A clinically proven education and exercise program for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis, aimed at reducing pain, improving joint function, and enhancing quality of life.
- Physiotherapy
- Chiropractic
- Massage Therapy
- GLA:D
- Clinical Pilates
- Occupational Therapy
- Laser therapy
- Electrotherapy
- Shockwave Therapy
- Speech therapy
- Kinesiology Taping
- Knee Bracing
- Cryotherapy
- Spinal decompression
- Custom mattress
- Custom Orthotic
- NDIS
- Post-OP Rehabilitation
- Aged Care Services
- Dietetics
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Whole Body Vibration
Evidence-based exercise & education for hip and knee osteoarthritis
The GLA:D® Program (Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark) is an internationally recognised treatment approach developed to help people with hip or knee osteoarthritis reduce pain, improve mobility, and stay active without relying on surgery or long-term medication.
Grounded in high-quality osteoarthritis research, GLA:D® focuses on exercise therapy, education, and self-management strategies proven to slow symptom progression and support long-term joint health.
Who Is GLA:D® For?
GLA:D® is designed for adults experiencing symptoms such as:
- Knee or hip pain
- Stiffness or reduced mobility
- Difficulty with walking, stairs, or weight-bearing activity
- Early, moderate, or advanced osteoarthritis
The program is appropriate regardless of severity, and is especially valuable for individuals trying to avoid or delay joint surgery through conservative management.
What GLA:D® Aims to Achieve
Through consistent exercise and education, the program helps you:
- Strengthen hip and knee muscles
- Reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
- Improve balance, function, and joint control
- Maintain an active lifestyle
- Prevent further symptom progression
- Reduce reliance on pain medication
- Manage osteoarthritis confidently and independently
It is one of the world’s leading conservative options for reducing hip and knee pain while supporting long-term quality of life.
What the Research Shows
International GLA:D® data demonstrates impressive outcomes:
- 32% reduction in symptom progression
- Reduced pain levels and medication use
- Fewer sick-leave days
- Increased physical activity
- High participant satisfaction
- Improvements maintained up to 12 months post-program
This is why thousands of people across Australia and worldwide have adopted GLA:D® as their primary osteoarthritis management option.
Why Choose GLA:D® at Physimed Health
- Delivered by trained physiotherapists
- Individualised monitoring and support
- Safe environment for beginners or older adults
- Evidence-based and outcomes-tracked
- Community-style motivation
- Designed to build confidence, not fear movement
You get ongoing support to maintain your progress beyond the program.
Take Control of Your Joint Health
If hip or knee pain is limiting your lifestyle — climbing stairs, walking distances, exercising, working, or simply enjoying daily tasks — GLA:D® can help you move again with confidence.
Avoid unnecessary surgery, reduce pain, and regain independence.
Book an assessment today and start your GLA:D® journey toward stronger, healthier joints.
Specialised In:
Aged care | NDIS home visits | Support at home (SAH) | Women’s health | Incontinence | TMJ dysfunction | Osteoarthritis | Falls prevention | Clinical Pilates
Frequently asked questions
The GLA:D program is for adults who have hip or knee osteoarthritis. It has been developed and extensively researched in several countries including Australia. Our physiotherapists have undergone specific training in order to be qualified providers of this program in Australia.
As with other physio visits, you do not need a referral. If you have serious medical conditions you should discuss exercise with your doctor before starting the program. Your GP may also be able to advise you if you are eligible for an EPC referral under Medicare.
The program involves an education session, an assessment, 6 weeks of twice-weekly classes, and a follow-up visit. The entire program will span 8-12 weeks depending on when you start.
The majority of participants notice less joint pain, reduced need for pain medication, and a better ability to do everyday activities such as walking and climbing stairs.
A little bit of muscle soreness is expected whenever starting a new activity. This is short term. The exercises will be designed to be safe and minimise the risk of falls and other injuries.
Most people find that aches and pains associated with arthritis, weakness or old injuries actually improve with regular exercise. Your physio will make sure that the exercise program is at a level appropriate for you.
Sessions typically run 45–60 minutes, depending on class structure and your individual program.