Alberta Health Services is piloting an exercise-based program to help people who have osteoarthritis in the knees and/or hips.

Offered through GLA:D Canada, the eight-week program is currently available in select clinics in all AHS zones, with more clinics opening later in 2017.

Research from GLA:D® in Denmark, where the program originated, shows that participants report less pain, reduced use of painkillers and more physical activity.

AHS is piloting the program through the Bone and Joint Health Strategic Clinical Network. Other partners in the GLA:D program include Bone and Joint Canada, the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation, the Alberta Bone and Joint Health Institute and The Arthritis Society.

(GLA:D stands for Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark.)

What’s involved?

Education Sessions

Two or three 90-minute education sessions focus on:

• What osteoarthritis is, risk factors and symptoms
• Current available treatment for osteoarthritis
• How to self-manage symptoms
• Why and how exercise can help with osteoarthritis
• How to cope with difficulties and daily activities with osteoarthritis

Neuromuscular Exercise Sessions

A GLA:D-certified therapist leads hour-long group exercise sessions twice a week for six weeks, during which time participants:

• Learn how to control movement and proper posture
• Build muscular strength through functional exercises
• Learn how to apply these exercises to everyday activities