Chiropractor and Osteopath Training Pilot

Proposed Research Study: Pilot GLA:D® Australia Course for Chiropractors and Osteopaths

What are we doing?

In collaboration with Macquarie University and Victoria University, we are exploring the feasibility of expanding the delivery of GLA:D® Australia to additional health professions. To do this, we plan to implement a small pilot study involving eligible chiropractors and osteopaths, with the aim of certifying these clinicians to deliver GLA:D® Australia in the second half of 2026.

Who will be involved?

The pilot course will be offered to a select group of chiropractors and osteopaths (approximately n = 30) who meet specific eligibility criteria.

In addition to AHPRA registration as an osteopath or chiropractor, clinicians will also need to meet additional criteria. Examples of these criteria are:

  • Have completed an Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) -accredited university degree (e.g. Bachelor of Applied Science [Exercise Physiology], Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science or Master of Exercise Physiology), OR
  • Have completed Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA) Level 1, 2 or 3 Strength & Conditioning Coach Accreditation, OR
  • Be an Osteopathy Australia titled ‘Exercise Rehabilitation Osteopath’

How will it work?

Eligible osteopaths and chiropractors will complete the standard GLA:D® Australia training course and certification process. Course costs will be consistent with those for physiotherapists and Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs). These clinicians will also participate in an evaluation process which will inform next steps within the broader program.

What is the evaluation process?

The evaluation framework is currently being finalised, but is expected to include:

  • Certification outcomes
  • Analysis of GLA:D® Australia registry data
  • Qualitative research exploring chiropractors’ and osteopaths’ beliefs, experiences, and perspectives on delivering care for people with hip and knee osteoarthritis

Why are we doing this?

GLA:D® Australia aims to improve access to evidence-based first-line care for people with hip and knee osteoarthritis across Australia. Expanding certification to clinicians with appropriate exercise expertise has the potential to increase reach, strengthen multidisciplinary care, and support clinics to offer the GLA:D® program more widely.

Next steps

We will continue to provide updates as the research project progresses and will share the results of the pilot once available.

If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact us at GLAD.Australia@latrobe.edu.au