PAO Surgery Restores Athletic Career

I had my PAO surgery after finishing my sophomore year of high school. I had 3 hip surgeries prior to my PAO. Since 7th grade, I had always had a pain in my hip. When I first realized the pain my parents took me to a sports medicine doctor, soon after I started physical therapy for what I thought would be a few months but turned into around 3 years. Many misdiagnoses later and being forced to quit gymnastics, I went to a hip specialist. After an MRI we came to the conclusion that I had a Ischiofemoral impingement so a few months later I had surgery for that. After fully recovering and doing many months of PT from that surgery, I felt that I still had pain in my hip area. The doctor told me that I had a torn labrum, so I had surgery again to repair that.

Again… My hip pain was not relieved. I was very frustrated at this point and wasn’t sure that I had any hope that I would be able to even live a comfortable lifestyle sitting and walking without pain. Later I was told that I had minor hip dysplasia and my doctor referred me to Dr. Clohisy knowing that he is the best doctor to perform this surgery for me. In July of 2021 I had the PAO surgery. The surgery recovery was tough but it was all worth it. I am finally pain free after 5 years of many doctors visits, PT visits and more.

Now, I am a pole vaulter after having to quit gymnastics due to my hip pain. This surgery has enabled me to have the ability to become a National Champion, an Indiana state meet record holder, a school record holder, one of the top high school pole vaulters in the country and much more.

I can not put into words how grateful I am for Dr. Clohisy and this surgery. It has given me the ability to live not only a pain free lifestyle but also be able to compete in Track and Field to the best of my ability. Now, I will be continuing my track and field career at the University of South Dakota on track scholarship on a pre-med track with the dream of helping others with similar injuries and situations like mine!

Kailee S.