Treatment of spinal injuries, coccyx fracture, compression fracture

X-ray of the coccyx and sacrum is a diagnostic research method used for back injuries.

To begin with, let us clarify that the coccyx is a so-called vestigial organ, what is left to modern man from his ancestors, an underdeveloped tail. Now these are 3-5 fused vertebrae, which are connected to the fifth sacral vertebra using an intervertebral disc.

The tailbone is an extremely vulnerable organ that can easily be broken if you fall carelessly. But even more dangerous than a fracture is a bruise of the tailbone, which may not make itself felt immediately.

Sacral injuries also significantly impair the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, so the problem needs to be diagnosed as quickly as possible.

Features of the structure of the coccyx

The coccyx is the lower portion of the spine, which may have three to five fused vertebrae . They are arranged in the form of an inverted pyramid with the base at the top and the apex at the bottom.

Pay attention to the structure of the coccyx

The first vertebra is endowed with modified upper articular processes, the so-called coccygeal horns. Its lateral surfaces have rudimentary (non-functioning) transverse processes. The remaining vertebrae do not have such processes.

What is MRI of the coccyx

During the examination, the tomograph creates a magnetic field and radiofrequency pulses around the patient. Under this influence, hydrogen protons line up in tissue cells for some time parallel to the field, and then return to their original position. During this change, a small amount of energy is released. It is captured by the device’s computer, digitized and recorded as a three-dimensional image on the monitor screen.

The advantages of MRI are:

• Obtaining data not only about the coccyx, but also about neighboring tissues;
• Determination of damage, neoplasms, inflammatory processes;
• The high quality of the images makes it possible to make an accurate diagnosis in one examination;
• During surgery, tomography data can reduce injury to neighboring areas;
• The absence of harmful radiation and safety allow the frequent use of MRI.

Possible causes of a coccyx fracture

Basically, a fracture of the coccyx can be caused by the following possible reasons::

• Severe bruise from falling on the buttocks, for example, slipping on ice;
• Receiving a direct blow to the coccygeal region during a traffic accident;
• Frequent shaking when driving in vehicles with hard seats;
• The passage of a large fetus through the birth canal;
• Injuries received while playing sports;
• Osteoporosis;
• Lack of vitamins and minerals, primarily calcium;
• Congenital diseases of bone tissue;
• Weak muscles.

Compression fracture of the spine

Any spinal injury is a danger to humans! If, after a fall from a height, a bruise, an unsuccessful jump into the water or an injury during sports training, you feel discomfort and pain in the back, radiating to the arms and legs - symptoms that do not go away for a long time, then most likely the cause of the discomfort will be a compression fracture spine.

A compression fracture is an injury to the spinal column that occurs during simultaneous compression and flexion. Under pressure, the vertebra is compressed and flattened, causing it to crack. An injury such as a compression fracture often occurs after landing from a great height on straight legs or on the buttocks, during forced bending of the body, or a car accident. A vertebral fracture is also possible if the cartilage of the intervertebral disc loses its shock-absorbing properties as a result of the development of various diseases. The bone structure is unprotected and with a relatively small impact a vertebral compression fracture can occur. Physiological problems in bone tissue and intervertebral discs, for example, osteoporosis, cancer metastases can also cause a vertebral fracture.

A compression fracture occurs, most often, in the lumbar and lower thoracic spine, when the eleventh and twelfth thoracic and 1st lumbar vertebrae are affected, and as a result of a compression fracture, the spinal nerve roots are compressed.

Compression fractures of the cervical spine occur much less frequently and can be the result of a strong blow to the head; they also occur in car accidents and falls from a height.

Symptoms of a coccyx fracture

Below are the main symptoms of a coccyx fracture

A fracture of the coccyx is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Sharp pain in the coccyx area;
• Redness and swelling at the site of injury;
• Hematoma formation;
• Difficulty and pain when walking;
• Difficulty with bowel movements;
• Increased pain in the coccygeal region when sitting and standing.

Video: “Symptoms of a coccyx fracture”

How to prepare for a tomography of the coccyx and sacrum

No special preparation is required to study the coccygeal region. A person may not change his eating habits and lifestyle. Special instructions can be set by the doctor only if contrast is administered to the patient. As a rule, restrictions include refusing food 2 hours before the procedure.

• MRI
• Ultrasound

MRI tomograph:

Siemens Magnetom C

Type:

Open (expert class)

What's included in the price:

Diagnostics, interpretation of images, written report from a radiologist, recording of tomograms on CD + free consultation with a neurologist or orthopedist after an MRI of the spine or joint

Ultrasound machine

HITACHI HI VISION Avius

Class:

Expert (installation year 2019)

What's included in the price:

Diagnostics, interpretation of images, written diagnostic report

Consequences of a fractured coccyx

A coccyx fracture is a serious injury, and if not treated in a timely manner, improper fusion of the vertebrae may occur..

This can lead to quite serious consequences:

• Periodic pain in the area of ​​the fracture;
• Inflammatory process and suppuration in the coccygeal region;
• Headaches, migraines;
• Gout;
• Disorders of the pelvic organs;
• Formation of cysts or growths on the tailbone;
• Problems with bowel movements or urination;
• Formation of salt deposits;
• Neuritis of the coccygeal plexus.

The consequences of a coccyx fracture may appear some time after the injury. This makes further treatment quite difficult.

Contraindications for carrying out

X-rays are safe in most cases, but possible risks cannot be ruled out. The main restrictions in carrying out are the period of pregnancy and lactation. In addition, the procedure is prohibited for the following categories of patients:

• Patients with tuberculosis at any stage.
• Patients with severe mental disorders.
• Suffering from a high degree of obesity.
• Children under 14 years old.

It is also not recommended for people with diseases of the cardiovascular system, pathological changes in the liver and kidneys, and the thyroid gland. Frequent x-rays can lead to blood pathologies, infertility or oncology. The recommended maximum number of diagnostics per year is 1 time. In this case, the exposure will not cause harm to the human body.

Fresh beets help remove radiation from the body

How and with what help is diagnostics carried out?

If a fracture of the coccyx is suspected, the first step is to take an x-ray of the sacrum and coccyx in several projections . But, often the thin tailbone is hidden under a large mass of soft tissue. Therefore, these studies do not provide an accurate picture of the injury.

If the coccyx is fractured, the first step is to take an x-ray.

In this case, a computer or magnetic resonance imaging of the spine may be prescribed , which allows for more precise detailing. At the same time, these studies also make it possible to see the condition of soft tissues, blood vessels and the nervous system.

These methods are completely safe and painless. A rectal or vaginal examination may also be used. After the examination, the specialist decides which treatment method will be used in a particular case.

Pay attention to what other causes of pain in the tailbone:

• The main causes of pain in the tailbone in women
• To learn about the causes of tailbone pain in men, go here
• What causes pain in the tailbone in women after childbirth, you will find out on the page

Interpretation of MRI results of the coccyx

An example of MRI decoding of the coccyx

Area of ​​study: MRI of the coccygeal spine In a series of MR images weighted by T1 and T2 in the sagittal and axial planes, the structure of the coccygeal vertebral bodies is quite homogeneous, the intensity of the MR signal from the bone marrow of the coccygeal vertebral bodies is moderately increased on T2 and T1-weighted account of fatty degeneration.
Location of the coccygeal vertebrae according to type 1. There were no signs of bone marrow edema of the vertebral bodies. Direct MRI signs of post-traumatic changes are not determined. Presacral fatty tissue is not changed. Conclusion: Initial degenerative-dystrophic changes in the coccygeal spine. It is difficult for an ordinary person to independently understand and interpret the results that, after an MRI, will be given to him on a digital medium. Therefore, with the conclusion of the radiologist and the photographs, he should go for a consultation with the attending physician, who will make a final diagnosis based on the summary data of the examination, medical history and tomography data. In our clinic , after an MRI, you can have a free consultation with a neurologist or orthopedist . Doctor

• will answer all questions based on the results of the research and the conclusion received
• Helps explain tomography results without using complex radiological terminology
• will conduct an examination and, if necessary, offer treatment.

“Second independent opinion” service Medicine is an area where we want to be 100% sure . Therefore, at your request, we will be happy to offer you the service of a second independent opinion from the leading consultant of our clinic, Candidate of Medical Sciences , a doctor of the highest category with 18 years of experience in the field of tomography and radiology N.V. Marchenko.

First aid

If you suspect a fracture of the coccyx, first aid should be provided to the victim, it consists of the following:

• The victim is placed on his side or stomach. You cannot lie on your back; the tailbone area should not be adjacent to any surface. All movements should be kept to a minimum;
• Ice or a cold compress is applied to the coccygeal area. This will help reduce blood flow to the damaged area;
• If you experience severe pain, you should take a pain reliever.

After first aid measures have been taken, the victim must be sent to the emergency room for examination. To do this, it is advisable to call an ambulance. If the patient is transported independently, he should lie on his side.

What opportunities does modern digital X-ray, which is used in medicine, provide?

Technologies do not stand still, and now radiography is a safe examination. The reason for this is digital technologies, which:

• minimize the radiation dose;
• provide more detailed information for diagnosis;
• provide better image clarity, which allows you to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a correct and timely treatment plan;
• allow for safe radiography of children and even pregnant women (in special cases and in agreement with specialists - obstetricians-gynecologists).

How should you prepare for an x-ray, and how does the procedure itself go?

• Before x-raying the coccyx and sacrum, it is recommended to limit the consumption of carbonated drinks and gas-forming products (dairy, yeast) a couple of days before the procedure.
• You need to come for an x-ray on an empty stomach.
• Already on site, the radiologist will ask you to remove metal jewelry that can affect the quality of the image.

The procedure itself involves taking pictures in two positions – on your back and on your side with your knees bent. The patient's weight should not exceed 100 kg.

Treatment

If a fracture of the coccyx was diagnosed during the examination, then first of all a special splint is applied . It is made in the form of a circle of cotton wool and gauze with fastening in the back area. Depending on the severity of the injury, it is worn from two weeks to one and a half months .

During this time, the patient must strictly adhere to bed rest, while lying on his side or stomach. Occasionally and very carefully, you can roll over onto your back for a short time. In this case, the patient can be treated at home with regular observation in the hospital.

Medications

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Therapeutic treatment for a fractured coccyx includes the use of analgesics to relieve pain , as well as anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent the development of an inflammatory process at the site of impact. They can be used either as injections or as tablets.

Calcium supplements and vitamin D are also prescribed. If there is no damage to the skin or suppuration, pain-relieving ointments can be used.

Surgical treatment of a coccyx fracture

Surgical treatment of a coccyx fracture is used in the case of an open fracture, trauma with displacement or the presence of fragments, as well as severe damage to blood vessels and nerve endings.

In these situations, open reduction is performed. During this process, the fragments are connected and fixed. The operation is performed manually under local anesthesia. After the procedure is completed, the patient is given a plaster cast. Further treatment is carried out only in inpatient settings.

Rehabilitation after treatment and preventive measures

Usually, after four weeks of treatment for a coccyx fracture, a period of rehabilitation begins , which, as prescribed by a specialist, may include hirudotherapy, exercise therapy, physiotherapy, mud therapy, electrophoresis, and massage. After the injury has been eliminated, pain in the coccygeal region may remain for a long time in one situation or another (sitting, walking, defecation, etc.).

In this case, it is advisable to follow some recommendations that will help reduce them, as well as recover faster from injury:

• When sitting on any hard surface, use a small pillow or other support;
• While sitting, lean forward and periodically move from buttock to buttock to remove excess load from the tailbone;

• 
  Read the rules for rehabilitation after a coccyx fracture. Do not sit on very soft surfaces so as not to put pressure on the coccyx area;

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• Drink at least two liters of water per day. It is also advisable to drink rosehip decoction, green tea and other drinks rich in vitamins and minerals;
• Include in your food as many foods as possible that contain calcium, silicon, and vitamin D. This can be milk and sour-milk products, eggs, seafood and sea fish, beans, lentils, corn, buckwheat and oatmeal, vegetable oils, various nuts. You should also eat vegetables and fruits daily, as they contain a large amount of fiber;
• Take baths several times a week in a sitting position;
• Sleep on relatively hard surfaces;
• If necessary, use painkillers and mild laxatives.
• Do not lift heavy objects, do not ride in vehicles with hard seats or ride a bicycle, and do not play sports.

Compliance with these recommendations will contribute to the rapid recovery of the coccygeal region and eliminate the consequences of injury.

Video: “Simple exercises for pain in the tailbone”

Treatment at home

In order to eliminate the consequences of a coccyx fracture in a short time, after eliminating the injury, you can carry out additional treatment at home.

To do this you can use the following methods that will help relieve pain and restore the tailbone:

1. Take a small piece of magnet and lightly massage the coccygeal area with it. Carry out the procedure for twenty minutes three times a day;
2. Peel a few raw potatoes and grind them into a paste. Apply the resulting mass evenly onto a thin cloth, fold it in half and apply it to the sore spot. Cover the compress with plastic wrap and cover the patient with a warm blanket. The duration of the procedure should be at least half an hour;
3. Grind 50 grams of fresh comfrey leaves, pour in 1 glass of olive oil and simmer over low heat for about half an hour. After this, cool the resulting composition, filter, add 50 grams of beeswax and 20 drops of vitamin E. Mix the ointment well, transfer to a glass container and store in the refrigerator. It should be used in the morning and evening, applying to the coccygeal area with light massaging movements;
4. Brew 2 tablespoons of fresh crushed geranium leaves with 1 liter of boiling water and simmer for 10 minutes. After this, cool the composition, strain and use for compresses several times a day;
5. Mix 1 tablespoon of table vinegar and 2 tablespoons of honey. Rub this mixture into the coccygeal area three times a day. In between, lubricate the sore spot with olive oil;
6. Combine 1 tablespoon each of cottage cheese, kefir, honey and vodka. Beat the resulting mixture well and use it as a compress in the morning and evening;
7. Grind fresh wormwood leaves into a paste, wrap in a thin cloth and apply to the sore spot. The compress should be fixed, covered with a warm blanket and lie down for half an hour.

When is an X-ray of the lumbosacral spine recommended?

• If a person has lower back pain, they should undergo x-rays of the lumbosacral spine.
• Also, indications for x-ray are persistent pain in the legs and hips
• If a person experiences lower back pain while driving a car or sitting in one place for a long time, he should consult a doctor immediately. The doctor may order an x-ray of the lumbosacral spine.
• If a person experiences pain in the hips and numbness in the legs, they need to undergo an x-ray of the lumbosacral spine.

Recovery prognosis

It is quite difficult to give a prognosis for recovery after a fracture of the coccyx . Most likely, this can only be done by a specialist who observes the picture of the disease and treatment. The process depends on many factors.

These include the severity of the injury, the course of treatment, the rehabilitation period, etc. If the fracture is not too complex and the victim has completed a full course of treatment and rehabilitation, then, as a rule, the tailbone heals properly, the pain goes away, and the ability to work fully returns. But at the same time, for some time you can only do light work.

Preparatory procedures

Despite the simplicity of taking an x-ray, simple preparation is required before taking it. It is optional only for persons who were brought in by ambulance in serious condition. In other cases, it is better to do everything correctly to increase the information content of the result.

• On the eve of the procedure, do a cleansing enema of the intestines. To do this you need to use a warm chamomile solution. This herb will additionally calm it down and prevent the formation of gases. To improve the cleansing result, you can additionally take a laxative, for example, Fortrans or Duphalac.
• For a few days, you should stop eating heavy foods, as well as foods that provoke flatulence. These include sugar, dairy products, and legumes.
• Before the x-ray itself, it is advisable to completely refuse food.

All other actions have little effect on the information content of the procedure. Therefore, otherwise there are no restrictions before the study.

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Diagnosis of compression fracture

The feeling of pain is the main symptom of a compression fracture of the spine; it does not indicate that a person has this particular injury, but may be a consequence of other pathologies. Therefore, to make a correct diagnosis, determine the location of a compression fracture and prescribe effective treatment, it is necessary to undergo a number of examinations:

• A neurological examination for a compression fracture is performed to check how the spinal cord, nerve roots and peripheral nerves are functioning after the injury.
• X-ray examination of the spine in direct and lateral projection will make it possible to determine damage, the degree and presence of complications in a compression fracture.
• Computed tomography facilitates a detailed study of the damaged area in a spinal compression fracture.
• Densitometry - this diagnostic method will help identify or exclude osteoporosis.
• MRI for a compression fracture is prescribed in case of suspected damage to the structures of the spinal column, to determine the extent of damage to the spinal nerves.
• Myelography – diagnosis and assessment of the spinal cord.

These procedures will help the doctor make the correct diagnosis, assess the danger of a spinal compression fracture, its effect on the spinal cord, and also to select treatment methods.