Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy - An International Journal

Coccydynia is a throbbing or aching pain in and around the area of the tailbone (coccyx); however, there is insufficient information on the efficacy of manipulation in the management of coccydynia.

The purpose of this study was to explore the efficacy of manipulation in the management of coccydynia.

A 38 year old female patient was referred to physiotherapy department of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, kano, for management of symptomatic pain in and around the coccyx, visual analogue scale(VAS) and functional disability scale were used to assess the pain level and status of functional ability of the patient respectively, pre and post management. The diagnosis of the condition (coccydynia) was made based on history, examination as well as dynamic radiographic imaging which revealed a hypermobile coccyx. Maigne's technique of coccygeal mobilization was employed. The technique was administered thrice per session, once a week for three consecutive weeks.

There was marked reduction in pain and improvement in functional abilities following three sessions of treatment as well as decrease in mobility to the normal range on radiographic imaging.

It was concluded that maigne's technique of coccygeal manipulation is effective in management of coccydynia and it should be incorporated as one of the treatment modalities for the management of coccydynia.