My PAO Recovery Journey
Recovering From PAO Surgery Doesn’t Have to Feel So Overwhelming.
Real-life recovery notes, weekly updates, honest symptoms, and the routines helping me stay grounded through a long rehab season.
Start Here
If you’re navigating PAO recovery, here’s where to begin.
My PAO Story
In 2018, at the peak of my fitness journey, I was diagnosed with hip dysplasia.
To say I was devastated is an understatement — it felt like a core part of who I was had been ripped away.
This is the story of how I faced surgery, rebuilt my strength, and learned who I was beyond movement.
Week-By-Week Recovery
Follow my real-time healing progress, milestones, setbacks, and honest updates.
Recovery Essentials
The products, preparation tips, and practical things that made recovery easier.
My Diagnosis
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In 2018, at the peak of my fitness journey, I was diagnosed with hip dysplasia.
The news felt like losing a part of my identity. Movement had always been strength, therapy, and confidence — and suddenly, it felt uncertain.
Why I chose PAO
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After years of managing pain and weighing options, I chose periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) surgery.
It wasn’t an easy decision — but I wanted long-term strength over short-term comfort.
What Recovery Has Taught Me
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Recovery has stretched me in ways I didn’t expect.
It’s forced me to slow down, rebuild patiently, and redefine what strength actually looks like.
This space is where I document that process — honestly and week by week.
Latest On The Blog
Week 10 After Hip Surgery: A Rough Start and a Strong Finish
The week started off rough. I was in a lot of pain. But as the week went on, things really started to improve in my hip. Monday Over the weekend I had been feeling really good and so optimistic about my progress. But as soon as I got up Monday morning, I was in a lot...
Week 9 Post PAO SurgeryRecovery, Mom Life & Progress
Monday The kids were off for a long Easter weekend, which gave us the chance to spend time with some old homeschool friends and just enjoy a slower day together. I was on my feet quite a bit in the first half of the day, so I definitely welcomed a more low-key...
Week 8 PAO Recovery: Walking Progress
Another week down and, thankfully, more progress! Medical equipment is slowly starting to disappear as my strength returns. Monday The kids went back to school after spring break, and I even did school drop-off for the first time since before surgery! I also took my...