Coccydynia: A Story Retold

Coccydynia refers to a pathological condition in which pain occurs in the coccyx or its immediate vicinity. The pain is usually provoked by sitting or rising from sitting. Most cases are associated with abnormal mobility of the coccyx, which may trigger a chronic inflammatory process leading to degeneration of this structure. The exact incidence of coccydynia has not been reported; however, factors associated with increased risk of developing coccydynia include obesity and female gender. Several non operative interventions are currently used for the management of coccydynia including Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), hot baths, ring-shaped cushions, intrarectal massage and manipulation (manual therapy), steroid injection, dextrose prolotherapy, ganglion impar blocks, pulsed Radio Frequency Thermocoagulation (RFT) and psychotherapy. Several studies have reported good or excellent results after coccygectomy especially in patients who are refractory to conservative treatment.