GLA:D® Back Program in Burlington

Who Is This Program For?

This program is ideal for individuals who:

• Experience persistent or recurring low back pain
• Feel unsure how to safely return to activity
• Want a structured, evidence-based approach
• Want to improve strength and confidence in movement
• Prefer active care over passive treatment  

 

Understanding Persistent Low Back Pain

Low back pain is one of the most common health conditions worldwide and a leading cause of disability.

Despite how common it is, many individuals struggle to find clear guidance on how best to manage their symptoms or safely return to normal activities.

Persistent low back pain can be frustrating and often difficult to manage. Many individuals experience recurring episodes that interfere with work, physical activity, and daily life. 

In many cases, imaging such as X-rays or MRIs does not clearly explain the source of symptoms. Research has shown that many people without pain may still have disc bulges, degeneration, or other structural findings visible on imaging. 

Because of this, modern clinical guidelines increasingly emphasize education and exercise as first-line approaches for managing persistent back pain. 

Programs that combine structured education with progressive exercise can help individuals improve function, reduce pain, and regain confidence in movement.  

 What Is the GLA:D® Back Program?

GLA:D® Back (Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark – Back) is a structured program that combines education and supervised exercise for individuals experiencing persistent or recurrent low back pain. 

Originally developed by researchers at the University of Southern Denmark and implemented in Canada through the University of Alberta, the program is designed to help individuals better understand their back pain and regain confidence in movement. 

Participants attend small group sessions led by trained healthcare professionals and learn practical strategies to help manage symptoms and return to meaningful activities.  

The program focuses on helping participants:
• Better understand how back pain works
• Develop strategies for managing flare-ups
• Improve strength and movement confidence
• Return safely to everyday activities

Evidence Behind the Program

GLA:D programs have been widely implemented internationally and are supported by current research and clinical guidelines.

Early implementation of GLA:D Back in Alberta has demonstrated encouraging outcomes. In addition to improvements in pain and physical function, participants often show a reduction in healthcare visits related to back pain.

These results suggest that structured education and exercise programs help individuals better understand and manage persistent back pain, often reducing reliance on repeated care.

Who May Benefit From This Program? 

The program may benefit individuals who:
• Experience persistent or recurring low back pain
• Feel unsure about how to safely return to activity
• Want to improve strength and confidence in movement
• Are looking for an evidence-based approach

Many participants join after trying other treatments but still feeling uncertain about how to manage their condition independently.

 

Want More Details About the Program? 

For those who would like a deeper understanding, see below for a detailed breakdown of program structure, sessions, and what to expect. 

What Does the Program Include?

The GLA:D® Back program typically includes:

Initial Assessment 

A one-on-one evaluation to determine whether the program is appropriate and to establish baseline measures.

Education Sessions 

Participants learn:
• How back pain works
• The role of movement in recovery
• Strategies for managing flare-ups
• Building confidence with activity

Supervised Exercise Sessions

Participants take part in guided exercises designed to improve strength, mobility, and movement confidence. 

Each participant’s program is individualized and progressed based on their ability, with clinical documentation completed using standard SOAP charting.

Reassessment and Goal Setting

At the completion of the program, participants undergo a one-on-one reassessment to review progress and establish a plan for long-term management.

Outcomes From the GLA:D Back Program

Research and implementation data have demonstrated encouraging outcomes.

Participants often show:
• Reduction in back pain intensity
• Improved physical function and strength
• Reduced fear of movement
• Reduced reliance on pain medication
• Improvements maintained over time
• High rates of personal goal achievement

These results reflect the benefits of combining education with structured, supervised exercise.

 

Insurance Coverage 

Although the program itself is not publicly funded, sessions are delivered as clinical chiropractic treatment.

Because each session includes individualized instruction, progression, and clinical documentation, many participants are able to submit sessions through their extended health benefits under chiropractic care, depending on their plan.

Our clinic is happy to answer any questions regarding billing or insurance eligibility.

Our Approach at Fairview Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Clinic

Fairview Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Clinic has been offering the GLA:D® Hip & Knee program for several years and runs multiple cohorts annually with referrals from family physicians, rapid access clinics, orthopedic programs, and patient referrals.

We are pleased to extend this same evidence-based approach to individuals experiencing persistent low back pain.

Our goal is not simply to provide treatment, but to help patients develop the knowledge, confidence, and tools needed to remain active and manage their condition independently.