Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my story (I'll make it brief) with this community and ask for your advice. Thank you in advance for taking the time to read this post, share your own experience, and offer your input.
I used to be a competitive kickboxer, training 2-4 hours a day, with the goal of becoming a professional fighter. About three years ago I started experiencing hip pain that was interfering with my training. Eventually I was diagnosed with FAI and given the option to have surgery. I was told the surgery would eliminate the impingement and associated symptoms. In 2014 I underwent bilateral FAO surgery with high hopes. Unfortunately, I have not been able to return to training since then. In addition, I now struggle with most forms of exercise and experience pain most days. It took me a long time to realize that my pain was not just part of my recovery and that my condition was not getting better.
Recently I spoke with a surgeon who explained that I have structural issues with my hips that are causing my cartilage to degenerate at an aggressive rate. It's still unclear to me whether the structural issues were a result of the surgery or unrelated. The Dr said that "time is ticking" and I'll have to have surgery to "save my hips." I'm still waiting on a call from him to discuss the results of my MRI- which will tell me what exactly the problem is, structurally. His suspicion is dysplasia, for which he recommends PAO surgery. The issue is that, when I asked him about my sport, he said he didn't think I'd be in shape to be a competitive kickboxer after having PAO surgery.
I've read that hip-resurfacing is a good option for young athletes and that there are no limitations on your activities post-recovery. I understand that my general health is more important than my ability to compete in my sport. However, if I am forced to have major surgery, I'd like to choose the one that gives me the chance to practice my passion and follow my dreams.
I haven't heard any stories of athletes around my age (I'm 26) needing hip-resurfacing. If anyone can share some experience on this subject, I would appreciate it greatly. I am not sure if I am too young to be a good candidate for resurfacing.
Also, I want to make sure I don't have any regrets about researching all my options and potential outcomes... but I'm not really sure where to start. Can anyone give me some tips?
Any other general advice or feedback regarding my situation will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!