If you have a periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) scheduled, it’s normal to feel both relief at finding a solution to chronic hip pain and worry about the recovery process.
PAO is often recommended for patients with hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip socket doesn’t fully cover the ball portion of the upper thighbone. The condition leads to joint instability, pain, impaired mobility, and other frustrating symptoms.
At his private practice in Houston, Texas, board-certified surgeon Kevin Park, MD, specializes in addressing the hip pain and impaired joint function associated with hip dysplasia. When the condition doesn’t respond to conservative therapies, PAO can significantly improve your quality of life.
Here’s what you need to know about recovering after PAO.
When you have hip dysplasia, your hip socket doesn’t fully hold the topmost part of the thighbone. This causes the hip joint to fully or partially dislocate more easily than normal.
Hip dysplasia also creates more wear-and-tear on the hip joint because of the misalignment. As such, your risk of getting osteoarthritis increases when you have hip dysplasia.
PAO surgery reorients the hip socket to provide better coverage, improving the function of the joint while reducing the symptoms associated with the condition. During PAO osteotomy surgery, Dr. Park realigns the head of your thighbone in the hip socket.
Dr. Park first removes the socket from your pelvis. He then repositions it so it better aligns with your leg bone, preventing the wear-and-tear on the bone and cartilage and easing your symptoms.
For an optimal recovery after PAO, start preparing before your surgery date. If your body is in the best possible state before your procedure, it heals significantly better and faster after your procedure.
Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to give your immune system a boost. Staying active also helps your recovery, so talk to Dr. Park about safe exercises you can perform pre-PAO without straining your hip.
Finally, take time to arrange your living space so essential items are easy to reach. Place the things you need for work or personal use in places where you don’t have to stretch excessively or climb stairs after your surgery.
Recovering after surgery depends on many factors, such as your overall health before surgery and your age. But understanding the general timeline helps set your expectations so you can focus on getting better.
The first few weeks after PAO are about resting, avoiding strain on your hip, and managing pain and discomfort. You can expect to use crutches to prevent putting weight on your leg, and you may need to sleep with your feet above your heart to prevent swelling.
Months one to three after your surgery are when you notice gradual improvement. During this time, you can expect to start physical therapy to help you regain strength and improve your mobility.
Three to six months after PAO are when things start getting easier. Pain and discomfort should be under control, and you’ll find activities get easier and easier. You may even find you can return to your normal activities completely.
Full recovery after PAO can take up to a year. Maintain follow-up appointments with your provider, and continue the exercises from physical therapy to keep your joint aligned and strong.
In the early stages after surgery, pain management is a key aspect of your recovery. Dr. Park prescribes medication to help keep your pain in check, but you do your part by using your crutches as directed, resting adequately, and applying ice to the joint.
Physical therapy is a non-negotiable part of your recovery after PAO. It helps restore strength and flexibility to your hip so you can get back to daily activities without complications.
Your daily habits also play a significant role in your recovery after PAO. Continue to eat a healthy, balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, and follow Dr. Park’s recommendations on gradually increasing your activity levels.
While some discomfort and challenges are normal, it's important to know when something isn't right. Contact Dr. Park right away if you experience:
In addition, reach out to Dr. Park with any questions or concerns. He can give you personalized PAO advice and make adjustments as necessary to your recovery plan.
For personalized information on what to expect after periacetabular osteotomy, schedule an appointment online or over the phone at our Houston, Texas, office.
