Coccyx Dislocation: Treatment Options and Risks

Coccygeal displacement

Dear Doctor,
I was in a car accident on May 13, 2020, and since then, I have been experiencing pain in my coccyx.
On May 19, 2020, I returned to my original hospital for an X-ray, and the doctor informed me that my coccyx was slightly displaced and that surgery was not necessary; I was advised to take medication instead.
However, today at work, since I am in the service industry, I have to stand or move around, which has caused persistent pain in my coccyx, left buttock, and upper thigh.

I would like to ask if rehabilitation can help realign my coccyx, or if surgery is the only option for proper alignment.
What are the risks associated with coccygectomy, and could there be any side effects? My family has expressed concern about the importance of the coccyx and advised against neglecting it, which has made me a bit anxious to seek information.
I will also consult with a specialized orthopedic doctor.
Thank you, Doctor.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

Wendy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/23

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

It is not possible to realign the bone using only the attachments, and there is no necessity for that.
Typically, surgery is not required; the family's statement seems to be incorrect.
Since the injury is only two weeks old, some pain is expected.
Conservative treatment will generally lead to recovery in about three months.

Reply Date: 2020/05/23

More Info

Coccyx dislocation, or coccygodynia, can be a painful and challenging condition, especially after trauma such as a car accident. Your experience of persistent pain in the coccyx area, as well as discomfort radiating to the left thigh and hip, is not uncommon. The coccyx, or tailbone, is a small triangular bone at the base of the spine, and while it may seem insignificant, it plays a role in supporting the pelvic organs and providing attachment for various muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management: In many cases, especially with minor dislocations or injuries, conservative treatment is recommended. This typically includes:
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

- Activity Modification: Since your job requires prolonged standing or walking, it may be beneficial to take frequent breaks and use a cushion when sitting to relieve pressure on the coccyx.

- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and improve flexibility, which may help alleviate pain and promote healing.

- Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the area can reduce swelling, while heat can help relax tight muscles.

2. Injections: If conservative measures fail, a healthcare provider may recommend corticosteroid injections into the coccyx area to reduce inflammation and pain.

3. Surgery: Surgical intervention is typically considered a last resort, usually reserved for cases where conservative treatments have not provided relief after several months. Surgical options may include:
- Coccygectomy: This is the surgical removal of the coccyx. While it can provide relief for some patients, it is important to understand that surgery carries risks.

Risks of Surgery
Surgical intervention for coccyx dislocation is not without risks. Potential complications include:
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.

- Nerve Damage: There is a possibility of nerve injury during the procedure, which could lead to numbness or weakness in the surrounding areas.

- Chronic Pain: Some patients may experience ongoing pain even after surgery, a condition known as post-surgical pain syndrome.

- Delayed Healing: Recovery from coccygectomy can take time, and some patients may find that their pain persists or returns.

Conclusion
It is essential to have a thorough discussion with your orthopedic specialist about your symptoms, treatment options, and the potential risks associated with surgery. They will be able to assess the severity of your coccyx dislocation and recommend the best course of action based on your specific situation.
In the meantime, focusing on conservative management strategies may provide relief and improve your quality of life. Remember that the coccyx is important, but many people live well with coccyx pain through appropriate management strategies. Seeking a second opinion or consulting with a specialist in pain management or orthopedic surgery can also provide additional insights into your condition.
Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

Similar Q&A

Treatment and Recovery for a Dislocated Coccyx After a Fall

Hello Doctor, my friend was pranked by a classmate who pulled her chair away, causing her to fall and land directly on her buttocks. The doctor diagnosed her with a dislocated coccyx. What treatment options are available for a dislocated coccyx? What rehabilitation exercises and ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Coccygeal contusions that are misaligned typically do not require reduction or realignment. Usually, pain management is sufficient to alleviate symptoms, and the condition will gradually improve on its own. There are generally no long-term sequelae, and specific rehabilitation or...

Managing Clavicle Dislocation and Bone Spurs: Treatment Options and Insights

I have had a partial dislocation of my clavicle for 8 months due to a car accident. I have undergone rehabilitation treatments including shortwave therapy, laser therapy, and electrical stimulation. I still experience discomfort in my right hand when performing certain movements,...

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics
It is recommended that you first get an X-ray of the coccyx for an initial assessment. The coccyx is less commonly associated with bone spurs; instead, it often shows signs of previous injuries. For a partially dislocated clavicle, conservative treatment is generally the main app...

Understanding Coccydynia: Treatment Options for Tailbone Fractures

In high school, I sustained an injury that caused severe pain at the time. I didn't pay much attention to it until recently when I sought medical attention and was diagnosed with a coccygeal fracture. What treatment options are available?

Dr. Lin Junliang reply Orthopedics
If there is no displacement in a coccygeal fracture, conservative treatment is generally the primary approach (rest and medication). Riding motorcycles and bicycles should be avoided. In cases of displacement, manual reduction may be performed, followed by conservative treatment....

Understanding Coccydynia: Risks of Manual Coccyx Realignment Treatment

About fifteen years ago, I fell while ice skating and injured my coccyx, which has caused persistent pain. An X-ray revealed that my coccyx is bent at approximately a 90-degree angle. I have undergone numerous treatments with both Western and traditional Chinese medicine, as well...

Dr. Chen Wayda reply Rehabilitation
Fifteen years ago, I fell while ice skating and my coccyx was bent at a 90-degree angle. Generally, coccygeal reduction is not recommended as a treatment. The focus is primarily on physical therapy to alleviate pain. The risks associated with coccygeal reduction cannot be evaluat...