Private, public, and hospital physiotherapy clinics host GLA:D® Australia programs. Depending on the area, the program's cost may change. Please talk to your physiotherapist about this. You do not need to get a doctor's recommendation.
Certain people may be eligible for publicly-funded services, and qualifying participants may be able to use Medicare funding to cover assessment expenses.
GLA:D Australia is a program for those who experience any pain or symptoms associated with Osteoarthritis, regardless of symptom severity.
GLA:D Australia accepts anyone who is experiencing hip or knee joint pain that resulted in the need to seek assistance from a medical provider.
If you have any of the following that apply to your hip and/or knee discomfort, you may need to consider alternatives to the GLA:D Australia program:
However, there may still be certain areas of the program that can be useful to you. As part of the program evaluation process, your physiotherapist will discuss your best treatment options.
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent illness in those aged 65 or older. However, OA can potentially affect individuals as young as 30.
As the first line of treatment for all people with osteoarthritis, current national and international clinical guidelines advocate patient education, exercise, and weight management.
In Australia, medication and surgery are frequently used as treatments for OA. The GLA:D® Australia program provides a secure substitute that could lessen your dependence on drugs, obviate the need for surgery, and enhance your capacity to engage more fully in job and leisure activities.
According to research from the GLA:D® program in Australia, there was an average reduction in pain of 27% (hip) and 33% (knee), an improvement in quality of life of 20% (hip) and 29% (knee), and a decrease in the use of painkillers of 45% (hip) and 49% (knee). Also, it was discovered that participants' desire for surgery decreased after the training. Participants' information is still being gathered by GLA:D® Australia to continue working towards improving the quality of life for those suffering from osteoarthritis.
This program is special in that the information acquired and exercises taught may be used in regular activities, ensuring that participants acquire the skills necessary to manage their osteoarthritis independently. Participants gain the improved capacity to begin or remain active, stop symptom progression, and experience less discomfort through strengthening and boosting confidence through exercise.
Links/points back to the website FAQ page for participants
https://gladaustralia.com.au/faq-for-people-with-oa/