A Structured Program for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis
GLA:D is a research-supported education and exercise program designed specifically for people living with hip or knee osteoarthritis. Many individuals notice increasing stiffness, joint pain with movement, or difficulty staying active as arthritis progresses. Activities such as walking, standing from a chair, climbing stairs, or keeping up with daily routines may begin to feel harder and less predictable.
At Excelsior Physiotherapy, the GLA:D program in Edmonton, AB and Sherwood Park, AB provides a clear, structured approach for people who want to manage osteoarthritis symptoms and improve how their joints function during everyday life. The program focuses on understanding the condition, building strength, and improving movement confidence rather than avoiding activity.
Who GLA:D Is Designed For
GLA:D is not intended for everyone with joint pain. The program is designed for people who have been diagnosed with hip or knee osteoarthritis or who experience symptoms consistent with joint degeneration. These individuals often want to remain active but feel uncertain about how to move safely or effectively.
Therapists at Excelsior Physiotherapy may recommend GLA:D when joint pain, stiffness, or weakness affects walking, standing, or daily tasks. The program is often appropriate for people who want a guided, evidence-based alternative to passive treatment or who are trying to delay or avoid surgical intervention. Participation always depends on an individual assessment to ensure the program matches a person’s needs and physical capacity.
Common Situations Where GLA:D May Help
GLA:D supports people experiencing challenges related to hip or knee osteoarthritis.
- Pain during walking, standing, or stair use
- Joint stiffness after rest or in the morning
- Reduced leg strength affecting balance or endurance
- Difficulty rising from chairs or low surfaces
- Activity avoidance due to fear of worsening symptoms
- Loss of confidence with movement
- Trouble maintaining an active lifestyle
- Joint discomfort that fluctuates day to day
How GLA:D at Excelsior Physiotherapy Works in Practice
GLA:D follows a specific structure that combines education with supervised exercise. At Excelsior Physiotherapy, therapists deliver the program as intended while tailoring it to individual abilities and goals.
- Education sessions help participants understand osteoarthritis, how joints respond to load, and why movement remains important. This knowledge reduces fear and supports informed decision making.
- Supervised strength training focuses on the muscles around the hip and knee, improving joint support and stability during daily activities.
- Progressive exercise loading allows intensity to increase gradually, helping joints adapt safely over time.
- Movement guidance supports better technique during functional tasks such as standing, walking, and stair use.
- Monitoring and outcome tracking help therapists adjust the program based on progress and symptom response.
- Self-management strategies give participants tools to stay active and manage symptoms outside of sessions.
GLA:D works best as part of a full physiotherapy plan. Therapists may combine the program with additional movement training or education based on individual assessment findings.
A Program Built on Understanding and Consistency
At Excelsior Physiotherapy, care reflects a commitment to helping people move better, feel stronger, and live fuller lives through compassionate, personalized support. GLA:D provides structure and clarity for individuals who feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice about arthritis care. Therapists explain each stage of the program clearly and support participants throughout the process.
This consistency helps people build trust in their joints and confidence in movement. Many participants value knowing what to expect and why each component of the program matters.
Moving Forward With Osteoarthritis Care You Can Understand
If hip or knee osteoarthritis is limiting how you move through your day, the GLA:D program at Excelsior Physiotherapy offers a clear, guided path forward. Connect with our team in Edmonton, AB or Sherwood Park, AB to learn whether this structured program fits your needs.