GLA:D Program

The GLA:D™ Canada Program is led by our Exercise Specialists. GLA:D™ is a unique, seven-week, education and exercise program for people living with stiff and/or painful knees and/or hips, or those with knee and/or hip osteoarthritis. Research from GLA:D™ in Denmark shows participants report less pain, reduced use of pain killers, fewer individuals on sick leave, and being more physically active. We’ll work with you on:

• improving your knowledge of osteoarthritis, risk factors and symptoms
• coping with the difficulties of daily activities associated with osteoarthritis
• controlling your movements and proper posture
• building muscular strength through functional exercises
• learning how to apply the exercises to everyday activities

Our Team Includes:

• your family doctor
• our Exercise Specialists

We’ll work on:

• education about osteoarthritis and the self-management of symptoms
• neuromuscular exercises that teach you how to control your movements and build muscular strength

How it works:

GLA:D™ is a seven-week exercise-based program we have started running virtually.

• 7-week program
• two, virtual one-hour sessions each week

Who is this course for?

Patients must meet specific GLA:D™ criteria in order to join this group program. If you have questions, please contact us at 780-410-8000 so you can speak with one of our Exercise Specialists.

About the GLA:D program by the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation:   Research from the GLA:D program in Canada has shown:

• a mean 15-29% improvement in pain;
• over 30% of individuals experiencing a marked improvement in activities of daily living and sports and recreation;
• over 45% of individuals experiencing a marked improvement in quality of life;

Other outcomes include a reduction in pain intensity and reduced use of joint related pain killers.