GLA:D® Back Physiotherapy Program in Adelaide: A New Path for Persistent Low Back Pain

Back pain shouldn’t keep you from walking your dog, playing with your grandkids, or enjoying a round of golf. If you’re tired of a cycle of flare-ups and short-term fixes, the GLA:D Back program offers a proven, long-term solution.

This evidence-based back pain program is designed for people with persistent or recurring low back pain who are ready to move better, feel stronger, and regain control of their life.

It’s not a quick fix, but a structured approach that builds simple, repeatable habits for lasting change.

End the Cycle of Chronic Low Back Pain

Many people with persistent back pain invest time and energy in treatments that offer only temporary relief, like rest, medication, or passive therapies, while missing the actions that create real, lasting improvement.

The GLA:D Back program changes that. Developed by leading researchers, it’s a globally recognised back pain physiotherapy program that combines education with supervised exercise.

The goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to manage your back yourself. By understanding what’s really going on, you gain more control over how your back feels and functions every day.

What is the GLA:D® Back Program?

GLA:D Back is an evidence-based program for back pain, delivered in a supportive, small-group setting at our Highgate clinic in Adelaide.

It’s built on two core principles:

1. Education: You’ll learn the latest science behind back pain, what pain signals really mean, and how to identify and change the habits that contribute to flare-ups. Knowledge is power, and understanding your condition is the first step to overcoming it.
2. Supervised Exercise: Our physiotherapists guide you through a targeted neuromuscular exercise program. These exercises are designed to improve coordination, build strength in your back and core, and restore confident, pain-free movement.

This structured small group physio program ensures you get expert guidance and accountability, helping you progress safely and effectively alongside others on a similar journey.

Our goal is to help you move with freedom, not just for a few weeks, but for life.

Here’s a short video that gives an overview of what the GLA:D Back Program is all about.

Who is this Lower Back Pain Program For?

The GLA:D Back program is ideal for individuals who:

• Suffer from persistent or recurring low back pain that impacts their quality of life.
• Have tried other treatments without achieving lasting results.
• Are ready to move beyond short-term fixes and take an active role in their recovery.
• Want to rebuild strength, mobility, and confidence in their body.
• Prefer a guided, supportive environment rather than trying to manage on their own.

What’s Included in the Program?

When you join the GLA:D Back program at Thrive Physio Plus, you’ll follow a clear, research-backed pathway.

• Initial Assessment: A one-on-one consultation with one of our GLA:D certified physiotherapists to discuss your history, assess your movement, and set your personal goals.
• An Education Session: In this one-on-one session, we’ll demystify back pain, explain what drives recovery, and give you practical strategies to manage your back day-to-day. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.
• 8 Supervised Exercise Sessions (Twice Weekly): Led by our expert physios, you’ll participate in small-group training sessions focused on improving strength, control, and body awareness.
• Ongoing Support & Data Tracking: We track your progress with both self-reported measures and objective physical tests, so you can see exactly how much you’re improving.

What Results Can You Expect?

While everyone’s journey is unique, research on the GLA:D Back program shows significant improvements.

Participants typically experience:

• A 31% reduction in pain intensity.
• A 28% reduction in the use of pain medication.
• A 25% improvement in physical function and daily activity levels.
• Improved mobility and less fear associated with movement.
• Greater confidence and a stronger belief in their ability to self-manage flare-ups.

Lasting change isn’t about hoping you feel better; it’s about seeing your progress.

Book Your Initial Consultation

Ready to take control of your chronic low back pain?

The next step is simple: book an initial consultation with one of our experienced, GLA:D Back accredited physiotherapists, Joseph or Dylan, at Thrive Physio Plus in Highgate, Adelaide.

During your first appointment, we’ll:

• Assess your back and understand your unique history.
• Explain how the GLA:D Back program can support your specific needs.
• Answer your questions and help you decide if this is the right pathway for you.
• Create a tailored plan to support your movement, strength, and confidence.

There’s no pressure, just expert guidance to help you start your journey toward lasting improvement.

If you’d prefer to call, you can reach our friendly team at 8490 0777.

Frequently Asked Questions

My scan shows “wear and tear” or degeneration. Can this program still help?
Absolutely. Scan findings like degeneration, disc bulges, and arthritis are very common in people without back pain and often don’t correlate with the pain you feel. This program teaches you that your back is strong and adaptable, regardless of what a scan shows.

Is it safe to exercise during a flare-up?
Yes, but with guidance. One of the key skills you’ll learn is how to modify activity during a flare-up, not stop moving completely. Our physiotherapists will teach you how to listen to your body and adjust exercises to keep you moving safely.

I’m not very fit. Is the program too hard?
Not at all. The GLA:D Back program is designed for all fitness levels. There is no prerequisite for exercise experience. Exercises are tailored to your starting point and gradually progressed as you get stronger and more confident.

What if I feel some pain during the exercises?
It is common and often acceptable to feel some discomfort during exercise, and our physios will teach you the difference between normal muscle soreness and pain that signals you should stop. They will guide you on how to work within a safe and comfortable range.

Are the sessions covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
The program may be eligible for rebates through your private health insurer under your physiotherapy and group exercise consultation cover. We can provide you with the correct item codes to check with your fund. For Medicare, you may be eligible for an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan from your GP, which can cover a portion of the costs.

How is this different from regular physiotherapy?
While one-on-one physiotherapy is excellent for acute pain, GLA:D Back is specifically designed for persistent or recurring pain. It focuses heavily on education, self-management strategies, and group-based exercise, empowering you with the tools to manage your condition independently for the long term.