GLA:D® ProgramS

Helping you manage osteoarthritis and back pain with confidence

Mead Physio Group is proud to deliver the world-recognised GLA:D® Hip and Knee and GLA:D® Back Programs. These evidence-based programs are simple, cost effective and noninvasive, combining education and exercise to help you manage symptoms, build strength and improve long-term wellbeing.

GLA:D® Hip and Knee

Best first-line treatment for hip/knee osteoarthritis

GLA:D® Hip and Knee is an education and exercise program designed to reduce the symptoms of hip and knee osteoarthritis. Developed in Denmark, it is now offered worldwide and has the strongest supporting research evidence of its effectiveness.

The program builds strength, confidence and function while teaching practical skills for everyday life, helping participants manage symptoms, reduce pain and stay active.

Now fully funded for eligible HBF members!
Learn more below.

GLA:D® Back

New approach to improve your low back pain

GLA:D® Back is a treatment option for patients with long-term or recurrent low back pain that affects everyday life. Developed in Denmark, it is an evidence-based program combining education and exercise to give participants the knowledge, strategies and confidence to better manage their pain.

Built on the best available research and international guidelines, the program helps improve function, reduce symptoms and support long-term wellbeing.

GLA:D® EDUCATION

Education is a key part of the GLA:D® Programs. Participants will take part in 1 group session where they’ll learn about their condition, why pain occurs and what can be done to improve function and quality of life.

These sessions give practical strategies and the confidence to better understand your body, manage symptoms, reduce pain and build long-term self-management skills.

Our education sessions are free, with bookings essential.

GLA:D® EXERCISE

Exercise is central to the GLA:D® Programs. Participants take part in 12 supervised sessions over 6 weeks, each approximately 60 minutes long, in small groups of 4-6 people. All classes are led by Mead Physio clinicians who are GLA:D® trained and certified.

The exercises are simple and adaptable, designed to build strength, balance and confidence in movement.

Osteoarthritis Treatment Pyramid

First line treatment: Educating patients about osteoarthritis, supervised exercise therapy, and weight management.
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First + second line treatment: Supplementing primary treatments with medications, passive therapies like TENS and manual therapy, braces, shoe inserts, walking aids, and injections.

First, second + third line treatment: Surgery is reserved for cases where primary and secondary treatments are ineffective. However, most individuals can manage osteoarthritis symptoms without surgery.

How can I be a part of the GLA:D® Program?

To take part in either of our GLA:D® programs, you can be referred by your doctor or refer yourself. An initial session with a GLA:D® accredited Mead therapist will need to be arranged before your program commences, to establish your fitness level and goals.


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HBF-Funded GLA:D® Program

We’re proud to offer the GLA:D® Hip and Knee Program, now fully funded for eligible HBF members.

To qualify, you must:

  • ‍Have a confirmed diagnosis of hip or knee osteoarthritis (natural joint only)

  • Be 18 years or older

  • Not be in another HBF-funded program

  • Not have joint replacement surgery scheduled within 3 months

  • Hold eligible HBF hospital cover and be financial at the time of your assessment

Eligible products include:
Corporate Gold Hospital, Gold Hospital Elevate, Silver Hospital Plus, GMF Complete Gold Hospital, Gold Hospital, and Prime Package Silver Plus.

Learn more on the HBF website or contact us to check your eligibility.