My real and increasing concern is the number of coccyx and pelvic pain patients I see who are “out of it” on a cocktail of painkillers and NSAIDs, muscle relaxants and drugs like Pregabalin (Lyrica) from pain clinics. Patients may feel woozy and tired, potentially leading to lengthening time off work with their social life and interests disappearing . Many become inactive and can become overweight, fibromyalgic and depressed. Then, in some cases, antidepressants and stronger Morphine-based painkillers are prescribed. Many sufferers off work for 12 months will not work again. Rather than long waits for pain clinics and orthopaedic referrals for cortisone injections, in my opinion, these sufferers should ask their GPs to refer, and ideally fund, them quickly to experienced chiropractors, osteopaths and physical therapists to properly diagnose and to help maintain them at work with physical treatment, ergonomic advice and gradually increasing exercises. This way, more patients will do well while the few needing surgery can be referred on more quickly to orthopaedic specialists who are experienced in coccyx surgery.

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Michael Durtnall

Chairman : Sayer Clinics