Can Dislocated Coccyx Be Repositioned? Treatment Options Explained

Q: Can Dislocated Coccyx Be Repositioned? Treatment Options Explained

Hello： In most cases, coccygeal injuries do not require treatment, except for acute dislocations, which are rare. <br>It is recommended to consult a physician to confirm the condition before resuming activities. <br>Thank you.

Coccygeal dislocation/subluxation/bruising?

Hello, doctor! I would like to ask if a dislocated coccyx/spine can be returned to its original position, and how should it be managed? About a month ago, a little boy in my class accidentally kicked a little girl who was washing her hands, and at that time, she thought she was fine.
However, she later started experiencing pain and initially treated it with topical patches.
After about five weeks, her parents took her for a consultation, and an X-ray taken over the weekend showed that her spine, which normally appears as a series of segments from top to bottom (pelvis), now has the lowest segment slightly misaligned (I apologize if my drawing is not accurate).
The angle is not that large, but the right side is elevated more.
The little girl has only seen the doctor once, and the X-ray results were unclear.
What further treatment might be needed, and will she fully recover and realign (this is the parents' hope)? Is surgery necessary? Additionally, I read an article stating that a chiropractor might need to adjust it through the rectum; is this really necessary? Lastly, what future treatments might be required, including duration and frequency, and what treatment recommendations do you have? Thank you, doctor!

Jini Laoshi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/01/08

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello: In most cases, coccygeal injuries do not require treatment, except for acute dislocations, which are rare.
It is recommended to consult a physician to confirm the condition before resuming activities.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2013/01/08

More Info

Dislocated coccyx, or coccyx dislocation, can be a painful and distressing condition, especially for children. When a coccyx is dislocated, it means that the tailbone has been displaced from its normal position, which can occur due to trauma, such as a fall or a direct impact. In the case you described, the injury resulted from a kick, leading to pain and misalignment of the coccyx.

Can a Dislocated Coccyx Be Repositioned?
The answer to whether a dislocated coccyx can be repositioned is somewhat complex. In many cases, a dislocated coccyx can be treated conservatively, and in some instances, manual manipulation may be performed by a healthcare professional. However, it is essential to note that the coccyx is a small, triangular bone at the base of the spine, and its dislocation is not as straightforward as dislocating a limb.

Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management:
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.

- Cushions: Using a cushion or a doughnut-shaped pillow when sitting can alleviate pressure on the coccyx.

- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist may provide exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve flexibility, which can aid in recovery.

2. Manual Manipulation:
- In some cases, a healthcare provider may attempt to manually reposition the coccyx. This is typically done under local anesthesia and involves gentle manipulation of the coccyx to return it to its proper alignment. However, this procedure should only be performed by a qualified professional, as improper handling can lead to further injury.

3. Surgical Intervention:
- Surgery is rarely required for coccyx dislocation but may be considered if conservative treatments fail and the pain persists. Surgical options may involve removing the coccyx (coccygectomy), which can provide relief for some patients.

4. Chiropractic Care:
- Some practitioners may suggest chiropractic adjustments, including techniques that involve manipulation through the rectum to realign the coccyx. While some patients report relief from such treatments, it is crucial to approach this option with caution and ensure that it is performed by a licensed chiropractor with experience in this area.

Prognosis and Recovery
The prognosis for a dislocated coccyx varies. Many patients experience significant improvement with conservative treatment, and full recovery can take several weeks to months. The timeline for recovery can depend on the severity of the dislocation, the age of the patient, and adherence to treatment recommendations.

Follow-Up Care
It is essential for the child to have follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor the healing process. If pain persists or worsens, further imaging studies (like MRI) may be warranted to assess any underlying issues that may not have been visible on the initial X-ray.

Conclusion
In summary, a dislocated coccyx can often be managed effectively with conservative treatments, and in some cases, manual manipulation may be an option. Surgery is typically a last resort. It is vital for the child to be evaluated by a healthcare professional who can provide a tailored treatment plan based on their specific situation. Regular follow-up care will ensure that the child is healing properly and can help address any ongoing concerns.

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