GLA:D Australia program is a structured education and exercise plan for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms. It aims to build confidence with movement, improve strength, and support day-to-day function.

If you want broader support for joint symptoms, start with our arthritis and osteoarthritis overview. You can also read more about hip arthritis and knee arthritis, plus what to expect from physiotherapy and exercise physiology.

What is the GLA:D Australia osteoarthritis program?

GLA:D stands for “Good Life with Osteoarthritis in Denmark”. Researchers first developed it in Denmark, then it came to Australia in 2016 to support Australians with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms. The program combines education and supervised exercise, then tracks your progress over time.

What does GLA:D involve?

The program reflects current osteoarthritis research. It also uses feedback from people living with OA and clinicians, so it fits real-life routines and common barriers.

GLA:D Australia runs in private, public, and hospital clinics. Costs vary by provider and setting, so discuss fees and funding options with your clinician. Some people may use Medicare funding for assessment sessions. Others may claim through private health insurance, depending on their cover.

The GLA:D Australia program includes:

• An initial appointment to explain the program and measure your current function
• Two education sessions that cover OA, risk factors, treatment options, and self-management strategies
• Group exercise sessions twice per week for six weeks to improve joint control, confidence, and strength
• A 3-month review to check progress, update goals, and re-measure function
• Questionnaires at registration, then again at 3 and 12 months to track pain, function, quality of life, and medication use

Can I participate in GLA:D Australia?

GLA:D Australia suits many people with ongoing hip and/or knee pain and symptoms that fit osteoarthritis, regardless of severity. In many cases, a clinician may still assess you even if you feel unsure about your diagnosis, because OA symptoms can overlap with other joint problems.

You may need other options (or a modified approach) if your pain relates to:

• Inflammatory joint disease
• Recent fracture or major trauma
• Tumour or other serious pathology
• Soft tissue or connective tissue problems as the main driver
• Widespread pain that dominates your symptoms (for example, fibromyalgia)

Even then, parts of the program may still help. Your clinician can discuss the best plan for your situation after an assessment.

Osteoarthritis treatment in Australia

Many national and international guidelines recommend education, exercise, and weight management as first-line care for hip and knee osteoarthritis. A structured plan can also reduce reliance on passive treatments alone.

In addition, if you want to build a longer-term plan beyond the six-week group block, explore our exercise programs and knee exercises hub pages for practical next steps.

For a plain-English overview of treatment options commonly recommended for osteoarthritis, see MedlinePlus’ osteoarthritis guide: Osteoarthritis (MedlinePlus).

Research and the GLA:D program

GLA:D Australia continues to collect outcomes data from participants. Reports commonly show improvements in pain, function, quality of life, and reduced pain medication use after completing the program. These results vary between individuals, so your clinician will help set realistic goals and track your progress over time.

GLA:D at Ashgrove PhysioWorks

PhysioWorks runs the GLA:D Australia program at our Ashgrove clinic. Group exercise classes run on Wednesday and Friday each week. Group education sessions run once per fortnight on a Wednesday afternoon.

FAQs about the GLA:D Australia program

How long is the GLA:D Australia program?

Most people complete six weeks of supervised exercise, with two education sessions early on. You also complete follow-up reviews and questionnaires at set time points to track progress.

Do I need scans before starting?

Not always. Many people start based on symptoms and a clinical assessment. Your clinician may recommend imaging if they need to check other causes of pain or if symptoms do not match typical osteoarthritis patterns.

Can GLA:D help if my osteoarthritis is “bone on bone”?

Many people with significant joint changes on imaging still improve their function with education and exercise. However, your response depends on factors such as sensitivity, strength, sleep, activity levels, and other health conditions.

Can I do the program if I have knee pain but no clear osteoarthritis diagnosis?

Often, yes. Your clinician will assess whether your symptoms fit the program goals. In some cases, they may adjust the approach or suggest a different plan if another condition better explains your symptoms.

What if I flare up during the program?

Flare-ups can happen when you change activity levels. Your clinician can adjust exercise dose, change movements, and help you pace load so you keep progressing without pushing too hard.

What to do next

If hip or knee pain affects your walking, stairs, work, sport, or sleep, book an assessment. A physiotherapist can confirm whether GLA:D suits you, explain likely timeframes, and set a plan that fits your goals and schedule.

We offer GLA:D classes at Ashgrove PhysioWorks.