What is Gla:D?

Good Life with Osteoarthritis in Denmark

Based on the renowned Good Life with Osteoarthritis in Denmark (GLA:D®) program, GLA:D™ Canada is a nationwide, evidence-based initiative designed to follow the latest recommendations for managing hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA). Tailored for individuals with stiff, painful hips or knees due to OA, the program offers online data tracking, two educational sessions, and 12 exercise classes.

OA is influenced by both irreversible factors—such as age, gender, and genetics—and modifiable factors, including previous joint injuries, excess weight, repetitive heavy work, and weak muscles. The disease typically progresses gradually over many years. Current clinical guidelines for treating hip and knee OA emphasize patient education, exercise, and weight loss (if necessary) as the primary treatment approach.

What makes the GLA:D™ program unique is its focus on targeted exercises that can be directly applied to everyday movements, improving quality of life. Research shows participants experience increased physical activity, reduced pain, lower reliance on pain medications, and in many cases, a delayed or reduced need for surgery. The GLA:D™ Canada initiative is proudly supported by Bone and Joint Canada, The Arthritis Society, and the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.

The Gla:d program

Assessment

Start with a personalized one-on-one physiotherapy assessment to determine if the GLA:D program is the right fit for you. During the assessment, baseline tests will be conducted to help track your progress throughout the program.

Education

The program includes two interactive education sessions, conducted virtually in small groups to foster discussion and shared learning.

Treatment Plan

The program consists of 12 one-hour Neuromuscular Exercise Sessions. All sessions are done twice per week are held in small groups of 10 or fewer participants to ensure personalized attention and support 

Start your journey

Contact us to schedule your assessment and secure your spot in the upcoming class!

 

Benefits

Results from Denmark for 10,000 participants at one year follow-up include:

Less Intense Pain

  • a 27% reduction in pain intensity

REduction in Pain

  • 37% and 45% reduction in use of joint related pain medications for knee and hip OA participants respectively
  • reduced use of painkillers 

Improved physical activity levels

  • An over 30% increase in self-reported physical activity levels

Reduction in Sick Leave

  • 20% of GLA:D™ participants with knee OA were on sick leave, compared to 30% at baseline

Prerequisites

Anyone with pain or stiffness from knee and/or hip OA.

Program Overview

All assessment, education, and exercise sessions are provided and attended by a registered Physiotherapist with GLA:D™ Canada certification.


The program includes a 60-minute assessment with a licensed physiotherapist of anyone presenting with hip or knee pain and stiffness. This assessment will determine if the person is eligible for participation in the GLA:D™ program and explain the program, risks, benefits and alternatives. Two standardized tests (40 m fast paces walk test and a 30 second chair stand test) will be completed to monitor progress during the program

A mandatory component of the program is online data collection pre-program, 3 and 12 months after completion of the GLA:D™ exercise program. Two 60-minute small group education sessions will be held at ReActive Physiotherapy. 12 – (2 times per week for 6 weeks) exercises sessions will be completed with other GLA:D participants in a small group format at ReActive Physiotherapy.

Schedule & cost

We offer Education Sessions twice a month in the mornings—call us or email to find out the next upcoming dates.

 

Exercise Classes are available with both morning and evening options. Contact us to find out the next start date.

 

Cost: $40 per session for 14 sessions, plus a $150 initial assessment fee. Most private health insurance plans cover the majority of these costs.”

 

Program Pathway

Referral from Family Doctor or Rheumatologist

Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and ask for a referral to join the program. In order to have coverage under some health benefits plans, a referral to physiotherapy is required. 

Self Referral

If you’re experiencing hip or knee stiffness, you can complete a self-referral. Our GLA:D trained physiotherapists will assess your condition to determine if the program is the right fit for you.

Physio Team

Frequently
asked questions

Find answers to common questions about the GLA:D program, designed to help individuals with osteoarthritis improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life through evidence-based exercises and education.

The GLA:D program runs for 6 weeks, including one assessment session, 12 exercise classes, and two virtual education sessions to support your osteoarthritis management. Each session is 1 hour in duration. 

This program may be covered under extended health insurance, as it is billed as physiotherapy, depending on your provider and plan.

This program is not covered by OHIP but can be covered by most extended health insurance plans.

In order to complete the GLA:D program, it is recommended to attend all 14 sessions. This ensures you fully understand the importance of the exercises and have a comprehensive program to continue with after graduation.

Yes, attending the education sessions is mandatory, as they encourage discussion and provide a deeper understanding of osteoarthritis.

The classes are held twice a week for six consecutive weeks, with options for either morning or evening sessions. When signing up, you’ll need to choose one time slot—either mornings or evenings. All sessions are led by registered physiotherapists. New classes run every two months, so check with our front desk team to get started. 

Please come prepared for class with athletic shorts, a comfortable shirt, supportive athletic shoes, and a water bottle, ready for exercise.

During each class, participants will follow their own individualized program, specifically tailored to their physical abilities and needs. A physiotherapist will be there to guide them through all exercises, ensuring proper technique and providing appropriate challenges for continued progress.

If you cancel your appointment at least 24 hours in advance, there will be no missed appointment fees. However, missed or late cancellations will incur a $40 fee. You can make up missed classes for up to two sessions, subject to availability, with make-up sessions offered when possible.

Upon completing the GLA:D program, you’ll receive your booklet and have the option to purchase equipment, such as resistance bands and exercise balls, to continue your strength program at home. We also offer a refresher class for graduates, and you’re welcome to repeat the program if you need extra support or have fallen behind with your home exercises.

 

gallery