This procedure may be considered for selected people with persistent coccyx or tailbone pain, particularly pain on sitting.
What happens?
Professor Bateman performs an injection of local anaesthetic and steroid around the sacrococcygeal joint using X-ray guidance, followed by gentle manipulation under sedation.
To move the coccyx adequately, it can sometimes be necessary to place a gloved finger into the back passage.
Will it help?
There is a 60–70% chance of improvement but relief varies between people. The injection and manipulation cannot guarantee that pain will settle permanently.
What are the alternatives and risks?
Alternatives may include changes to sitting, cushions, medication and physiotherapy. Risks include temporary pain flare or soreness, bleeding, infection, allergic reaction and complications related to sedation.
Arrange for someone to take you home and follow the specific advice given by the hospital after sedation.
Detailed patient leaflet
Read Professor Bateman’s information leaflet before your procedure and bring any questions to your consultation.
Open the PDF leaflet →