“The GLA:D program has educated me and given me the knowledge to help me stay healthier” March 27, 2023 Joan is a former participant of Horizon’s GLA:D program at the Saint John Regional Hospital, attending the program on referral from her family doctor. “I’m so ‘GLAD’ I participated in this program,” she said. “Before starting the program, I could only walk outside or on the treadmill for a short time, about 15 to 20 minutes, before pain and discomfort set in. Now I can walk for an hour either way and have only a little soreness and stiffness in my knee, which is mostly gone the next day.” Good Life with Osteoarthritis in Denmark (GLA:D) is a 6-week program that combines education and specific, targeted neuromuscular exercise for patients with osteoarthritis of the hips and/or knees. The program gives patients the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition independently and live active lifestyles. Joan’s lifestyle has changed since attending the program. She attributes that to her excellent interaction with the program’s certified physiotherapist. “I learned the proper techniques in doing the exercises, and it made it possible for us, the participants, to ask questions and get answers during the exercises,” she said. “In addition, the educational classes helped me better understand osteoarthritis, the best ways to function with it, and treatments. “The program has educated me and given me the knowledge to help me stay healthier. And because of that, I have recommended the program to a friend.” This program is currently accepting patients. Those interested can visit our physiotherapy program page to self-refer.