GLA:DTM

Bone & Joint Health Strategic Clinical NetworkTM

 
three people in exercise class

GLA:D® is an eight-week group exercise and educational program developed in Denmark for people with symptoms of knee or hip osteoarthritis (OA). GLA:D stands for “Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark”.

The program is delivered in a group setting and involves two or three education sessions followed by 12 supervised exercise sessions (twice / week). GLA:D is currently offered at select clinics in all AHS zones.

Overview

The GLA:D program is designed to teach Albertans about OA with an aim to reduce symptoms through a targeted exercises program. Research from GLA:D® in Denmark shows that participants report positive outcomes, including less pain, reduced use of painkillers and more physical activity.

GLA:D Alberta is a collaboration by AHS, the Bone & Joint Health SCN, Bone and Joint Canada, the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation, the Alberta Bone and Joint Health Institute, and The Arthritis Society.

Learn more about the:

What's involved?

Education Sessions

Two or three 90-minute education sessions cover:

  • What osteoarthritis is, risk factors and symptoms
  • Current available treatment for osteoarthritis
  • How to self-manage symptoms
  • Why and how exercise can help with osteoarthritis
  • How to cope with difficulties and daily activities with osteoarthritis

Neuromuscular Exercise Sessions

A GLA:D-certified therapist leads hour-long group exercise sessions twice a week for six weeks, during which time participants:

  • Learn how to control movement and proper posture
  • Build muscular strength through functional exercises
  • Learn how to apply these exercises to everyday activities

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