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Rachel - rachanne28@yahoo.co.uk
Posted 2006-04-23
I had my coccyx removed on the 31 March 2006, and although I was taking painkillers, I didn't really feel that there was a lot of pain. I was sitting up within a couple of hours - quite gingerly though! One problem which became immediately apparent was that I was unable to pass water, as my muscles were in shock. I therefore had to have a catheter fitted for a day. This did not stop me getting up and about. The physiotherapists had me up and down the stairs on the day following my operation, catheter bag in hand! Once I had moved my bowels, I had the catheter removed and I went from strength to strength. I was discharged from hospital on the 3rd day after the operation.
Unfortunately, a week after the operation, the wound split open, and after a visit to A&E and to clinic, I was readmitted to have the wound restitched under anaesthetic. I was discharged the following day. Since then I have made a steady recovery, and I find that I can sit down for longer periods, and walk for short periods without any problem. I am not really in any pain, although I am finding it difficult to get comfortable at night in bed. I'm sure this will ease with time.
All in all, I am confident that I made the right decision to have my coccyx removed, and would recommend Mr Rao at St James Hospital in Leeds, UK. He has been very helpful and supportive. I am going to Italy in May and I am now confident that I will be able to travel in (relative) comfort! No looking back!