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.
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PAO Surgery Hospital Stay: What to Expect Day by Day
Before Surgery About 7–14 days before your surgery, you will likely have a pre-op appointment. This appointment is typically done at the hospital or surgery center—not with your surgeon, but with a designated pre-op team. They will draw blood, check your basic health...
Week 5 of PAO Recovery
5 weeks today!!!! I'm so close to weight bearing I can taste it!...
PAO Recovery Week 4: Visitors, Appointments, and Small Wins
My busiest week yet! Between a couple doctor’s appointments and lots of lovely visitors, Week 4 absolutely flew by. Monday No visitors or doctor’s appointments today. I spent the day getting some work done on the computer. Keeping my mind occupied and doing small,...