Small Steps Create Big Shifts - Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of mobility issues and disability in older individuals, but it also affects younger age groups.

Osteoarthritis affects the whole joint, but most of all it affects the articular cartilage (the cartilage covering the ends of the bones). This articular cartilage becomes thin and fragile.

Around 5% of individuals aged 35-54 have osteoarthritis, often due to prior joint injuries

Osteoarthritis arises when degeneration outpaces regeneration, leading to thinning, cracking, and potential disappearance of cartilage, resulting in bone-on-bone contact.

Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint that has cartilage-covered joint surfaces. However, the knee and hip are large joints that are frequently affected due to the loads that are put through the joints with daily activity.

Individuals experiencing osteoarthritis symptoms or at high risk of developing it should receive intervention to prevent progression or symptom development. 

This includes: Disease information, Joint stability training, Promoting stability in daily activity, Weight reduction as needed.

Based on the success of the program in Denmark, the GLA:D® education and exercise program for knee and hip OA is now being made available in Canada.

Now you can access the basic GLAD exercises from your home without any added cost. You need access to internet and a safe place to do the exercises as instructed. However if you are having problems with balance, pain or other concerns please confirm with your physician before doing these exercises.

The management pyramid provides a visual representation of recommended treatment approaches.