How to Participate in gla:d Ireland

GLA:D Ireland is a programme that works for individuals who experience any level of hip and/or knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

The programme can be run in rehabilitation clinics including private, public, and hospital sites. It can also be provided in wellness centres such as gyms. The cost of the programme is set by the clinic so there may be costs associated with attending a private clinic.

If you are interested in attending a GLA:D programme, the next step is to identify the clinic(s) that are accessible to you on the location page of this web site. This page will be updated regularly as more physiotherapists get trained. For each clinic a phone number is provided to call the clinic to clarify the start times for the program, the pricing, as well as the potential need for a referral from a GP. In most cases this will not be required.

Eligibility

Prior to participating in the program the GLA:D therapist will complete a physical assessment to ensure that you have symptoms that will respond to the programme. You may not be able to participate if:

You have other reasons for your hip and/or knee problem e.g. soft tissue or connective tissue problems, inflammatory joint disease, fracture or some other disease

You have other symptoms that are more pronounced than the osteoarthritis problems (for example chronic generalized pain or fibromyalgia)

You are unable to understand and communicate in English and cannot provide translation for the education and to support you during the exercise program

If you have problems with another body part, such as your low back, that will prevent you doing the exercises your therapist will treat this first so that you can fully participate in the program.

If you think you would benefit from the GLA:D Ireland programme, contact one of our GLA:D Ireland clinics using the information posted here.