Navigating the Healthcare System: My Hip Pain Journey Continued

Back in August, I wrote about the experience of hip pain bringing me down during my summer trip. Here's a recap.

I thought it might be interesting to share the continuation of my story. So here's what happened next...

After I returned from my trip, it became even more apparent how much my hip pain was interfering with my everyday life. I found myself planning ahead before running errands, knowing that parking too far from my destination would lead to discomfort. Even a simple trip to the grocery store required occasional pauses for my hip.

I knew I needed more guidance and was excited about finally seeing an orthopedist, hoping they would order imaging. First, I had to visit my primary care provider. She ordered X-rays of my back and hip, which showed minimal hip arthritis and moderate scoliosis. The scoliosis wasn’t new, and the hip findings didn’t seem severe enough to explain my level of discomfort. I was frustrated when my primary care provider informed me that the orthopedist didn’t want to see me or order an MRI. Instead, he recommended that I attend a pain class.

Fortunately, a colleague suggested I request a transfer to a different clinical team—great advice. I was then able to see another orthopedist who confirmed, via an MRI with contrast, that I had a hip labral tear. From there, I was referred to a surgeon to discuss possible surgical repair.

The whole experience was an emotional rollercoaster: excitement at the thought of seeing an orthopedist, frustration when the first one refused to see me, and finally, vindication when a second orthopedist provided better care. My primary care provider even sent constructive feedback to the first orthopedist.

Ultimately, I decided to avoid surgery by doubling down on physical therapy (not a surprise, right?). I set myself some test points: if I could dance, travel by plane, and snowboard without significant pain, I wouldn’t pursue cortisone shots or surgery.

By October, I was teaching the "Thriller" choreography for our flash mob. In November, I traveled which included running through the airport to catch a flight and exploring Prague by foot. Finally, in December, I went snowboarding... pain-free. Phew!

I know this story isn’t over. The hip labrum is still torn, and I’ll likely need further intervention in the future. But for now, crisis averted. Interestingly, the physical therapy strategies that helped the most were those addressing my scoliosis, particularly the alignment of my spine and pelvis. It’s more evidence that everything in the body is connected.