What is the GLA:D-Back Program – and Could It Help You?
At Lakelands Health and Performance, we’re always looking for effective, evidence-based ways to help our patients move better, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life. One program we’re excited to be bringing to our clinic later this year is GLA:D Back – a structured exercise and education program specifically designed to help people living with back pain.
What is GLA:D Back?
GLA:D Back stands for Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark – Back. It’s a specialised version of the well-known GLA:D program that’s been successfully used worldwide for managing hip and knee osteoarthritis. The “Back” program applies the same principles to people with persistent or recurrent low back pain.
Developed by leading researchers and physiotherapists, GLA:D Back combines:
Tailored exercises to improve strength, mobility, and control of the spine and surrounding muscles.
Education sessions to help you understand your condition, what’s contributing to your pain, and how to manage flare-ups confidently.
Self-management strategies so you can keep making progress long after the program finishes.
Who Can Benefit from GLA:D Back?
GLA:D Back is designed for adults who have been experiencing:
Ongoing or recurrent low back pain
Pain or stiffness that’s limiting movement or activity
A lack of confidence in using their back during everyday tasks
Recurring flare-ups despite trying other forms of treatment
It’s not just about treating pain – it’s about helping you move with confidence, get back to the activities you enjoy, and feel more in control of your body.
Why GLA:D Back Matters More Than Ever—Australia’s Back Pain Landscape
LBP affects around 1 in 4 Australians on any given day, and nearly 50% have experienced it in the past month.
Approximately 3.7 million Australians (16%) are living with chronic back problems, representing 1 in 6 people.
Chronic back conditions impose a substantial burden: in 2011, they were the third leading cause of disease burden across all health conditions.
The economic toll is significant. Back pain costs Australia's healthcare system approximately A$4.8 billion per year, with a GDP loss of A$3.2 billion annually.
In terms of disability, low back problems account for nearly 44% of years lived with disability (YLDs) among musculoskeletal disorders.
These numbers highlight just how common and impactful LBP is—for individuals, families, and society.
Why GLA:D Back Works
Research has shown that a combination of targeted exercise and education is one of the most effective ways to manage and improve low back pain. GLA: D Back provides a structured, supportive environment where you can work with trained clinicians, learn safe and effective movements, and gain the tools you need to manage your back health for the long term.
Many participants also find the group setting reassuring – sharing experiences and progress with others who understand what you’re going through can be both motivating and encouraging.
What to Expect
The program typically runs over 10 weeks, with two educational sessions and 8 weeks of supervised exercise sessions. Your exercises will be tailored to your ability and gradually progressed to help you improve strength, function and confidence.
Coming Soon to Lakelands Health and Performance
Dr. Ben has recently completed training to become an Accredited GLA:D Back Clinician and we’re excited to be offering it later this year. We’ll be sending out an expression of interest soon for those who would like to take part in the first intake.
If you’ve been struggling with persistent low back pain and want a proven, supportive, and empowering approach to getting better, GLA:D Back might be exactly what you need.
📩 Keep an eye on our website and social media for updates – or get in touch with our team to register your interest today.