GLA:D Program in Manotick
Discover a practical approach to managing hip and knee osteoarthritis through education and guided exercise at Manotick PhysioWorks.
Contact UsBuild Strength with GLA:D
Hip or knee osteoarthritis can affect more than just your joints. It can make it harder to enjoy recreational activities, keep up with daily routines or move comfortably throughout the day.
At Manotick PhysioWorks, we offer the GLA:D Program (Good Life with osteoArthritis from Denmark), a research-based approach to osteoarthritis management that brings together patient education and targeted exercise.
Rather than focusing solely on symptom relief, GLA:D helps participants understand how osteoarthritis affects their joints and how strengthening exercises and improved movement patterns can support long-term mobility.
Our Manotick physiotherapy team provides guidance to help participants develop the skills and confidence to remain active while managing the challenges of hip and knee osteoarthritis.
A Program Designed Around Your Mobility Needs
If you've been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in your hip or knee, the GLA:D program may be an option for helping you manage pain or stiffness. The program is suitable for people experiencing a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort during physical activity to more persistent difficulties with everyday movements. Exercises are selected and adjusted according to your abilities.
GLA:D Program Overview
GLA:D brings together osteoarthritis education and a structured exercise series, helping you develop healthy movement habits.
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Program Length
The program runs for approximately 6–8 weeks, beginning with 1–2 online education sessions and continuing with six weeks of twice-weekly, in-person exercise classes.
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Online Sessions
Virtual sessions take place on Zoom, with scheduling and the number of sessions determined by group size and availability. Your physiotherapist will send the meeting link 1–3 days before your session.
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Getting Started
New participants complete a 30-minute assessment with the GLA:D physiotherapist to establish baseline measures and determine program suitability. Current patients receiving active treatment for their hip or knee may join through their treating physiotherapist's recommendation, without an additional assessment.
With consent, their physiotherapist can share relevant information with the GLA:D physiotherapist, and baseline testing is completed during the first in-person class.
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Extended Health Benefits
The program is eligible for coverage under extended health benefits, depending on your plan. Receipts are provided as physiotherapy services for insurance submission.
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No Referral Necessary
You can sign up for the program directly without a doctor's referral.
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Small Group Sessions
Classes are limited to six participants and led by GLA:D physiotherapist Jessica Fieldhouse.
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Returning Participants
Previous GLA:D participants may be able to attend individual sessions during an active program, subject to physiotherapist approval, available equipment and space.
By the end of the program, you'll have a a foundation of exercises you can continue using to support your mobility on your own.
Preparing for Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery
Many hip and knee surgeons recommend or require GLA:D before joint replacement surgery. Building strength beforehand can help reduce muscle loss and support a smoother recovery. For some participants, the program may improve osteoarthritis symptoms enough to delay or even avoid surgery.