I was born with hip dysplasia, which was diagnosed when I was five months old. My left hip did not develop properly, and the socket was small and shallow. I had two major operations in childhood. The first operation was when I was a baby. I had to wear big bandages for a while which delayed my first steps to the age of two. From there, I was able to walk on my own. However, a few years later my leg became uncomfortable to walk on. My hip started to stick out and I started to limp on the left side. I struggled to walk far distances and cried in pain.  

 

 

The second operation was due to a fall I had at six years old while playing in my living room (as a child, I did not think about my condition). I tried to jump on the sofa, but I missed and fell backwards on the ground, fracturing my left hip. I was taken to hospital for a couple of weeks where I had open reduction surgery with a temporary pin. Afterwards, both legs were casted. After having the cast off, I began using a walker at home and at school where it was advised by a doctor not to take part in physical activities for a long time. That meant I had to sit out, which made me feel isolated and also determined to join in one day.

 

 

Over the years I have managed to take part in outdoor activities and a variety of sports including football, cycling and swimming. With the encouragement from friends and mentors to go my own pace and take breaks if my hip got sore, I felt included. I also felt more confident in myself and believed that I could achieve anything I put my mind to.  

Now, in my late twenties, I have started using a walking stick. This is mainly for my body to improve posture as my spine is slightly unever due to limping on the left side. The walking stick also helps my balance since both legs are not the same length and I can be wobbly on my feet sometimes. I tend to lean on my walking stick when my hip gets painful, stiff, sore and numb while walking or standing. At first it felt daunting to use a walking stick But I have gradually become more confident and the stick has been very beneficial and helpful in my daily life.

 

 

 At some point in my adult life, I will be in need of another operation. For now I am focusing on looking after my physical health, self-care, well-being and movement. I also am continuing to learn more about my hip condition through supportive communities, and by sharing stories and connecting with others. 

Thank you for enjoying the hip dysplasia stories. The stories shared by our community members are intended for information and entertainment only. We are incredibly grateful to our hip dysplasia community members who have taken the time to share their experiences and journeys through hip dysplasia. These stories reflect individual experiences and journeys. Nothing in these stories is intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with qualified health professionals who are familiar with your individual medical needs. Miles4Hips does not endorse specific healthcare providers or institutions, and information or opinions shared in these stories does not necessarily reflect those of Miles4Hips or the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.