Coccyx was misshapen like a zigzag

Natalie, UK

Posted 2022-09-04

After the birth of my child, I knew something was wrong with my coccyx. I told my doctor that I could literally feel the bones in my coccyx sticking out, but was told my pelvis would go back into place naturally. Roll-on 18 months of excruciating pain, struggling to kneel to change my child's nappy, unable to sit or even lay down without pain. Eventually I was given a referral to see a Physio.

The Physio quickly realized that I had Coccydynia and tried to refer me for an x-ray, however at this time the NHS would not x-ray coccyx and I was left with a referral to the pain clinic. At the age of 32, I was disgusted that due to the way in which I'd given birth (ventouse and forceps) I was now being fobbed of with taking medication for the rest of my life.

My husband and I started to do research online and came across Michael Durtnall's coccyx website, and straight away I made an appointment to see him (Sayer Clinic in London, see Doctors and specialists in the UK, London).

To say he was my saviour is no exaggeration! He x-rayed my coccyx during the first appointment and it was clearly misshapen like a zigzag, no wonder I'd been in so much pain. Michael explained that as there had been such a delay from the initial injury to seeking help from him that he was unsure of what outcome I would get. I saw Michael regularly in the weeks/months after my initial consultation and over time my coccyx did return to a more natural position and I became pain free. I can't thank Michael enough as he gave me my life back.

I would recommend Michael to anyone suffering with a coccyx disorder, he is honest, kind, professional and an absolute gentleman.

Note from Jon Miles:

I emailed more than a year after this story was posted, to ask for an update, as the long-term outcome of treatment is of great interest. In this case I did not get a reply.