Misty Copeland has revealed the struggles she’s faced after her major operation.
She shared a video on social media which showcased the retired dancer’s healing journey.
The combined clips displayed Misty taking small steps with a walker, getting her bandage taken off at the hospital, taking a stroll with a cane, doing floor stretches, partaking in physical therapy, and also getting to finally walk without any assistance.
She captioned the post: “Recovery, start to now. Since my hip replacement in December, it’s been a journey of patience, small wins, and learning to trust my body again. From first steps with support to walking on my own, every phase has mattered.”
Misty continued: “Healing isn’t linear but it’s built on consistency, support, and resilience. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come. I’m deeply grateful for the incredible outpouring of love, encouragement, and support that has carried me through every step of this journey. Her fans cheered her tremendous progress on and flocked to the comments.”
One person wrote: “This is so lovely! And I love how you did self-care after your beautiful and incredible run of your wonderful career! I am watching your journey with joy and happiness and comfort to know how incredible of a person you are and again, the joy that you have brought to women of color and especially young little brown and black girls!!!!!!!!”
A second fan added: “No doubt you will be floating again in no time! Wishing you the best on your recovery. Hip and knee replacements today are INCREDIBLY successful and given your strength, you will be better than new!”
This wasn’t the first time that the former ballerina has gotten candid about her difficult recovery.
© InstagramOn February 25, she shared a carousel on Instagram showcasing herself learning to walk again, hospital visits and relaxing in bed.
She captioned the post: “A few months ago, I stepped off the stage after my final bow with @abtofficial, closing one chapter and unknowingly preparing for the next. Not too long after that, I had hip replacement surgery.”
© InstagramMisty added: “Since then, I’ve been focused on healing — physically, mentally, and patiently. These were my first few days: learning to walk again, resting, and letting my body do the work. Recovery isn’t glamorous, but every small step matters.”
In October 2025, Misty made the decision to perform for the last time before taking a final bow and retiring at 43.
© Getty ImagesShe spoke exclusively with HELLO! and shared her advice for aspiring dancers.
Misty expressed: “I think that it’s really about, first of all, knowing why you’re doing this, believing in yourself, but it’s easier said than done.”
She suggested that having a supportive circle around is a must and she added: “It’s like surrounding yourself with people who believe in you, are going to encourage you, and be there on those days when you don’t believe in yourself and you’re exhausted, and just really finding the joy and the passion in this.”
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