GLA:D®

COMING JUNE 2025

GLA:D®, from 'Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark', is an education and exercise program developed by researchers in Denmark for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

"Research from the GLA:D® program in Australia  shows an average pain reduction of 31% (knee)"

GLA:D was brought to Australia in 2016 to help Australians with hip or knee osteoarthritis.


This education and exercise program reflects the latest evidence in osteoarthritis (OA) research. It also includes feedback from people with OA and trainers on what works in the real world to help patients manage OA symptoms.

GLA:D is safe

In Australia, treatment usually focuses on medications and surgery. The GLA:D® Australia program offers a safe alternative that may reduce your need for medications, avoid the need for surgery, and improve your ability to participate more actively in work and recreational activities


Current national and international clinical guidelines recommend patient education, exercise and weight management as first line treatment for everyone with osteoarthritis.

Who does GLA:D® help?

GLA:D® Australia is a program for all individuals who experience any hip and/or knee pain or symptoms of OA, regardless of severity. You may participate in the GLA:D® Australia program if you have a hip or knee joint problem that resulted in visiting a health care provider.


This program is unique in that the knowledge learned and exercises taught can be applied to everyday activities, ensuring participants develop skills to self-manage their osteoarthritis. By strengthening and improving confidence with exercise, participants develop better capacity to become or stay active, prevent symptom progression and reduce pain.


During the intitial assessment, we determine if the GLA:D® Australia program is suitable for you or if you need to explore other options to manage your symptpms.

  • Initial Appointment

    An initial appointment to explain the program and measure your current functional ability.

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  • Education Sessions

    Two education sessions which teach you about OA, its risk factors, treatment options, and self-management strategies.

  • Group Exercise

    Group exercise sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve your control of the joint, your confidence in the joint and your strength.

  • Program Review

    A review at 3-months with your clinician to discuss progress and goals, and re-measure your functional ability.

  • Questionnaire

    Completion of a questionnaire on registration with the program, and then again at 3 and 12 months after registration to measure changes in areas such as pain, function, quality of life, and medication use. 

GLA:D® Australia is a not-for-profit initiative led by La Trobe University.

For more information visit

GLA:D Australia