Disc Herniation After Tailbone Injury: Symptoms and Treatment

Q: Disc Herniation After Tailbone Injury: Symptoms and Treatment

Hello： Based on your description： "The area around my lower back has become very swollen and painful, and my left leg often experiences sharp pain from my lower back to the sole of my foot... <br>My lower back is sore except when lying down, and my left foot is increasingly numb;

Herniated disc

Hello, doctor.
Three weeks ago, I fell down the stairs and sustained a coccygeal fracture.
Initially, the pain was not severe, and my mobility began to improve.
However, since last week, the area above my coccyx in the lumbar region has become very swollen and painful, and I often experience sharp pain radiating from my lower back down to my left leg.
I went for a follow-up appointment with an orthopedic specialist and had X-rays taken.
The doctor mentioned that the coccygeal fracture looks fine, but my symptoms might be due to a herniated disc caused by the impact.
He advised me to wait until the fracture heals a bit more before starting lumbar rehabilitation.
However, in the days following the appointment, my symptoms have worsened.
My lower back is very sore except when lying down, and my left leg is increasingly numb; I even feel weakness in my legs after standing for more than 10 minutes.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Given my current situation, would you recommend waiting until later for rehabilitation to assess how to treat this, or should I get an MRI at the hospital first? 2.
This is my third time falling down the stairs, but the first two times did not result in fractures; I only occasionally felt soreness in my lower back after prolonged sitting or standing.
Given that my current symptoms are more severe, is there a possibility of permanent damage to the nerves and muscle strength in my legs? 3.
To alleviate my current pain, would you recommend doing more stretching and light activities, or should I primarily focus on resting in bed? Thank you, doctor!

Hedda, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/22

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello: Based on your description: "The area around my lower back has become very swollen and painful, and my left leg often experiences sharp pain from my lower back to the sole of my foot...
My lower back is sore except when lying down, and my left foot is increasingly numb; I can barely stand for more than 10 minutes without feeling weakness in my legs..." 1.
It sounds quite serious and is affecting your daily life.
I suspect it may be a herniated lumbar disc, and there could even be cartilage damage compressing the nerves.
I recommend seeing a neurosurgeon.
An MRI should be arranged to confirm your condition.
2.
If the condition is severe, it could potentially have permanent effects, so early evaluation is advised.
3.
Please rest and lie down.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Best wishes.
// Dr.
Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of Spine Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/02/22

More Info

In your situation, it seems that you are experiencing significant discomfort following a tailbone injury, which has now led to symptoms that may suggest a herniated disc. Let's break down your questions and concerns regarding your condition.

1. Should you wait for rehabilitation or get an MRI? Given the worsening of your symptoms, particularly the increasing pain in your lower back and the radiating pain down your left leg, it would be prudent to pursue an MRI sooner rather than later. An MRI can provide detailed images of your spine and help identify any disc herniation or other issues that may not be visible on X-rays. Early diagnosis is crucial, especially if there is a possibility of nerve involvement, which could lead to more serious complications if left untreated.

2. Could there be permanent nerve damage? While it is difficult to predict the long-term effects without a thorough examination and imaging, repeated trauma to the spine can potentially lead to chronic issues. If a herniated disc is pressing on a nerve root, it can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs. If these symptoms persist, there is a risk of permanent nerve damage, especially if the pressure on the nerve is not alleviated. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical attention if they worsen.

3. Should you engage in stretching and light activity or rest? In the acute phase following an injury, it is generally advisable to rest and avoid activities that exacerbate your pain. However, prolonged bed rest can lead to stiffness and muscle weakening. Gentle stretching and light activities, as tolerated, can be beneficial, but they should not cause pain. It’s essential to listen to your body; if certain movements increase your discomfort, it’s best to avoid them. Once you have a clearer understanding of your condition from the MRI results, a physical therapist can guide you on appropriate exercises that promote healing without aggravating your symptoms.

Additional Considerations
- Pain Management: In the meantime, consider using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen), to help manage your pain and inflammation. Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area may also provide some relief.

- Physical Therapy: Once your condition is assessed, physical therapy can be an effective treatment option. A physical therapist can develop a tailored rehabilitation program focusing on strengthening the muscles supporting your spine, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall function.

- Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail and your symptoms persist or worsen, surgical options may be considered. This could involve procedures to relieve pressure on the affected nerves, such as a discectomy or laminectomy, depending on the severity of the herniation.

- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you notice any new symptoms, such as bowel or bladder dysfunction, or significant weakness in your legs, seek immediate medical attention.

In conclusion, your symptoms warrant further investigation through imaging, and a proactive approach to managing your pain and rehabilitation is crucial. Early intervention can significantly improve your outcomes and help prevent long-term complications.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

On the morning of the 19th of last month, I woke up and suddenly felt pain in the left side of my lower back near the hip while picking something up. After exercising that evening, I found it very difficult to climb stairs. A rehabilitation specialist diagnosed me with a piriform...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If it is a herniated disc, the pain may radiate from one side of the buttock down the back of the thigh to the calf and into the sole of the foot, potentially accompanied by neurological symptoms such as numbness and decreased sensation in the foot. Additionally, an increase in a...

Understanding Herniated Discs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing intermittent pain for over a year now, with symptoms being more pronounced during the colder winter months. The only external factor I can think of is that I have been doing weight training at the gym and abdominal exercises at home. Symptom...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
It appears to be symptoms of lumbar disc herniation compressing the nerves. An MRI can be performed, and it is covered by health insurance, so there is no out-of-pocket expense. However, the physician will assess the severity of the condition based on clinical symptoms to determi...

Effective Exercises for Recovery from Herniated Discs: A Guide

In late December 2000, I experienced severe back pain that rendered me immobile, akin to being in a vegetative state, lying in bed unable to move. Any movement would cause excruciating pain in my lower back, making me feel worse than death. After spending four days in the emergen...

Dr. Hong Xuyi reply Neurosurgery
Hello FANG, there are several common causes of lower back pain in young people. One is a sprain that leads to tendon inflammation, and another is a herniated disc. A herniated disc can compress the nerve roots, resulting in back pain and sciatica. Different locations of the herni...

Understanding Herniated Discs: Treatment Options and Military Considerations

Hello, Dr. Chiu! My name is Ah Liang, and I am an active-duty military personnel. My diagnosis is a herniated disc (L4-L5). Symptoms include numbness in the right big toe, lower back pain after standing for long periods, severe pain when lying down to rest, and stiffness in the l...

Dr. Qiu Yushu reply Neurosurgery
Hello: There are many surgical options for treating herniated discs, but the outcomes are generally similar. If your symptoms are significant and imaging studies (such as MRI or CT) confirm the diagnosis, surgical treatment is recommended. Wishing you good health!