GLA:D Knee, Hip & Back Program

An Evidence-Based Approach to Managing Osteoarthritis & Back Pain

Are persistent knee, hip, or back issues interfering with your everyday life? You don’t have to rely on surgery or medication alone. At Chipperfield Mobile Physio & Wellness, we offer two internationally recognized GLA:D® programs—designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and live more freely.

What is GLA:D®

GLA:D® (Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark) is a research-backed education and exercise program that helps people manage chronic pain through movement, self-management strategies, and clinical support. Developed in Denmark and now available across Canada, the program focuses on improving physical function and reducing pain—without surgery.

PROGRAMS

Choose the Program
That’s Right for You

GLA:D® Hip & Knee

Tailored for those with hip or knee osteoarthritis, this program focuses on:

  • Delaying or avoiding surgery

  • Reducing joint pain and stiffness

  • Increasing mobility and function

  • Promoting long-term lifestyle changes

GLA:D® Back

Designed for individuals with recurring or chronic low back pain, this unique program:

  • Focuses on behavior and movement—not structural diagnoses

  • Helps you rebuild confidence in your back

  • Teaches you how pain works and how to manage it

  • Emphasizes movement variation and self-ownership of exercises

What to Expect

GLA:D® programs are delivered virtually over 8 weeks and include:

STEP 1

Initial Assessment

Before beginning the program, you'll meet one-on-one (virtually) with a GLA:D®-certified physiotherapist.
During this session, we will:

  • Review your medical history and current symptoms

  • Identify movement limitations or postural habits

  • Set personalized goals for the program

  • Determine which program (Hip/Knee or Back) is the best fit

  • Complete baseline strength and function testing for tracking your progress

This session ensures your program is tailored to your needs from the start.

STEP 2

2 Education Sessions

Education is the foundation of GLA:D®. You’ll attend two group-based virtual sessions early in the program.

Hip & Knee Focus:

  • Understand osteoarthritis and its impact on joints

  • Learn how to manage pain through movement and joint care

  • Debunk common myths around OA and surgery

  • Explore lifestyle and pacing strategies to preserve joint function

Back Focus:

  • Learn why most chronic back pain is not caused by structural damage

  • Understand how pain is influenced by behavior, stress, and beliefs

  • Discover how to build confidence in movement again

  • Discuss the brain’s role in pain and how to manage flare-ups

These sessions are designed to empower you with practical tools and a mindset shift.

STEP 3

12 Supervised Exercise Classes

Held twice a week over 8 weeks, these small-group classes are led by your physiotherapist and focus on safe, progressive movement.

Hip & Knee Focus:

  • Neuromuscular training to improve control, strength, and balance

  • Exercises that mimic daily activities (e.g., stairs, standing from a chair)

  • Focus on improving joint function and reducing stress on affected areas

Back Focus:

  • Movement variation to restore natural patterns and reduce tension

  • Strengthening combined with endurance training

  • A relaxed approach—there is no “perfect” way to move

  • Encouragement to explore movement, even with mild discomfort

Exercises are adapted to your ability level and become more challenging as you improve.

STEP 4

Progress Monitoring

We don’t stop when the program ends. You’ll complete check-ins at regular intervals after the 8-week program to monitor:

  • Pain levels

  • Functional improvement

  • Confidence with movement

  • Any changes in medication use or lifestyle

This data-driven approach helps us fine-tune your care and provides you with measurable results.

STEP 5

Follow-Ups

After your cohort ends, you’ll have continued access to your physiotherapist through follow-up sessions to:

  • Revisit or progress your exercises

  • Troubleshoot any setbacks or flare-ups

  • Get guidance on next steps—whether it's continuing independently, joining a maintenance group, or trying other services

These follow-ups support lasting change and long-term pain management.

EXPERTISE

Why People Choose GLA:D®

Up to 30% reduction in pain within 3 months

Potential to delay or avoid surgery

Improved confidence and body awareness

Research-proven outcomes

Reduced need for medications

Delivered online, accessible from anywhere in BC

READY TO START

Begin your GLA:D® journey

Get in touch for more information or to schedule an assessment.

Call 604-828-2610 or email info@chipperfieldphysio.ca