Who can see an Arthritis ACT Physiotherapist?
Our physiotherapists are trained to assist with all manner of acute, subacute and chronic pain conditions. They offer one on one consultations including ‘hands on’ manual therapy, exercise prescription and posture education. They can assist you before or after surgery with both land and hydrotherapy exercise rehabilitation options available.
What should I expect during my consultation?
During your consultation, our physiotherapists will discuss your personal goals. They may also conduct some gentle physical assessments to determine your strengths, physical weaknesses and physical limitations. They will then work with you to make a plan for how to reach your individual physical goals.
What physiotherapy programs does Arthritis ACT offer?
All Arthritis ACT physiotherapists are trained to deliver the GLA:D® program.
GLA:D®(Good Living with Arthritis Denmark) is an exercise and education program developed by researchers in Denmark for the treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis symptoms.
What does GLA:D® involve?
- An initial appointment to explain the program and determine your current functional ability
- Two education sessions which teach you about OA, it’s risk factors, treatment options, and self management strategies.
- Group exercise sessions twice a week for six weeks to improve your control of the joint, your confidence in the joint and your strength
- A review at 3-months with your physiotherapist to discuss progress and goals, and re-measure your functional ability
- Completion of a questionnaire on registration with the program, and then again at 3 and 12 months after registration to measure changes in areas such as pain, function, quality of life, and medication use.
How long does GLA:D® take?
GLA:D® classes are run in 1 hour group sessions. For best results, it is recommend that the GLA:D® program be undertaken over a 6 week period by attending two group sessions per week.
When are GLA:D® classes available?
Arthritis ACT offers GLA:D® group classes on Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays. Maintenance classes are available on Mondays and Wednesdays.
What happens when I finish the GLA:D® program with Arthritis ACT?
It is important to continue building your strength once you finish the GLA:D® program. Arthritis ACT offers you a weekly group-based maintenance program once you graduate from GLA:D® so you can continue to exercise once you finish the program.
For graduates looking to improve whole body strength and build upon the knowledge gained from participation in the GLA:D® program, Arthritis ACT offers small exercise physiology classes.
To find out more about the GLA:D® program please read the GLA:D® Participant FAQs. To make an appointment to see one of our physiotherapists, find out our maintenance program or about any of the other programs that we offer, call our office today!
Click here to view current and upcoming GLA:D education dates. Please telephone our office to book into an education session.
Arthritis ACT Physiotherapists are trained in the PEAK program (Physiotherapy Exercise and Physical Activity for Knee Osteoarthritis).
PEAK is a physiotherapy delivered osteoarthritis education and exercise program, designed by researches at Melbourne University, from research based evidence, for the management of knee osteoarthritis.
What does PEAK involve?
PEAK consists of physiotherapy sessions delivered one on one involving Education about what osteoarthritis is and which treatments are effective. Strengthening and balance exercises tailored to the individual progressed slowly over the 5 sessions. Physical activity monitoring and encouragement of measuring step count with a pedometer and access to online exercise video clips, educational information, and exercise booklets.
How is PEAK delivered?
PEAK is delivered in 5 physiotherapy sessions, one on one over a 3-month (12 week) period. Participants have an initial consultation with their physiotherapist and four (4) review consultations with the same physiotherapist as part of this program.
Who is suitable for PEAK?
Eligibility for the PEAK program is determined upon assessment with one of our physiotherapists. You do not need to have a diagnosis of osteoarthritis to participate. If you
- Have pain in your knee with daily activities and morning stiffness for less than 30 minutes
- Have some difficulty with stairs or prolonged walking
- Are able to complete the 5 sessions over 3 months
- Have completed an exercise medical pre screening or gained clearance from your GP prior to participation (if required) you are eligible to participate in this program.
How to I enrol in PEAK?
You will need to be assessed by one of physiotherapists before you can enrol in PEAK. Please call our office to make a booking.
