Dr.Syeda Mubashira Decoding Steroid Injections for Tailbone Pain: Balancing Hope and Reality

Hi everyone let me give some insight about Corticosteroid injection which is given for reducing tailbone pain. Injections used for coccydynia include corticosteroid injections into the caudal epidural space or into the sacrococcygeal junction. Alternatively, local anesthetic injections can block the ganglion impar (ganglion of Walther).

In the quest to ease the discomfort of tailbone pain, steroid injections often emerge as a beacon of hope. However, amidst the optimism, it’s crucial to acknowledge the realities uncovered by research regarding their effectiveness.

Let’s  discuss about the Promises and Pitfalls 

Steroid injections, lauded for their potential to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, have been a go-to option for many grappling with tailbone discomfort. Yet, recent research sheds light on a less glamorous reality: they may not be as effective as once thought.

Research Studies have revealed a spectrum of outcomes when it comes to the efficacy of steroid injections for tailbone pain. While some individuals experience significant relief, others find themselves disappointed by minimal or fleeting benefits.Lets have a Closer Look at the Data

One study published in a leading medical journal found that steroid injections provided only modest and short-term pain relief for tailbone pain, with a significant number of participants reporting no improvement at all. These findings challenge the widespread belief in the transformative power of these injections.

Navigating Clinical Dilemmas  

The disconnect between expectations and outcomes underscores the importance of informed decision-making in tailbone pain management. Healthcare providers must carefully weigh the evidence, considering factors such as patient preferences, treatment goals, and alternative options. So The Role of Patient-Centered Care plays a vital role.

In light of these research findings, a patient-centered approach becomes paramount. Open dialogue between patients and providers allows for realistic expectations to be set and empowers individuals to actively participate in their treatment decisions.

Redefining Success:

Rather than viewing steroid injections as a panacea, it’s essential to redefine success in tailbone pain management. While these injections may offer relief for some, others may find greater benefit from alternative treatments or a combination of therapies tailored to their unique needs.

Conclusion:

Steroid injections have long been heralded as a promising solution for tailbone pain, but recent research challenges this notion, highlighting the variability in their effectiveness. As we navigate the complexities of tailbone pain management, a balanced approach that integrates evidence-based practices with patient-centered care is essential. By embracing realistic expectations and exploring diverse treatment options, we can better support individuals in their journey toward relief and improved quality of life.

Hope this blog gives some clarity to people.

 As my Patient who have gone for injections (not one its 2/3 shots) has not found any great response in terms of pain reliefs. But ONE MAJOR COMPLAINT PATIENT ACKNOWLEDGE IS BURNING OR TENDERNESS ON COCCYX REMAINS FOR LONG TIME.

FACTS: Simple if X-ray is showing angulation on coccyx, then injections can only reduce pain, but angulation correction won’t happen.

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Depression due to Coccydynia in ladies by Dr.Syeda Mubashira(PT) .

As discussed in our previous blog about Coccydynia let me just give a brief idea about it.
Coccydynia or Tailbone pain can be defined in simple term as Pain in and around the coccyx (lowest portion of spine) usually bought by injury or trauma to coccyx or tailbone.Pain intensifies during and after sitting ,from sitting to standing.
As it is very similar to low back pain and shows more or less same symptoms as low back pain ,so its Important to differentiate it by proper assessment and diagnostic procedures.

As there is no direct evidence yet to conclude that coccyx pain can lead to depression, but there is a co-relation between chronic pain and depression.
Coccydynia is a most neglected condition and poor diagnosed across the globe.
Till the patient gets diagnosed by Coccydynia already the pain becomes chronic and especially in lady tailbone pain cases they feel shy to share this with the family.

Now lets understand what is depression and its relation to pain??????

Depression magnifies pain, as chronic pain lasts for longer from usual expected duration which may result in different emotional problems like anxiety,agitation,sleep disturbances, physical reconditioning, family stress, work problems, weight gain or loss.
Depression in women is very common, infact women are twice as likely to develop depression as men. Some experts believe that the increased chance of depression in women may be related to changes in hormone levels that occur throughout life.
The hormones which play an important role during depression is estrogen, progesterone & cortisol. Any abnormal levels of these hormones cause stress, agitation, mood instability, insomnia and depression.
Simple example: During the menstrual cycle generally the lady feels low, irritated and easily loose the cool. It’s because of estrogen levels which goes low. So, women are more prone for depression due to pain.

One of my lady patients expressed that because of Coccydynia she was so depressed and had suicidal feeling. As she meets 5-6 Doctors who said her to live with this pain which made her depressed and miserable mentally & physically. Also, the family couldn’t help and support her in her pain. As it’s a private area she couldn’t share this with her friends because Nobody is aware about this condition called Coccydynia. This painful sitting started effecting her work as she was not able to deliver her duties. All these factors made her so hopeless until she got to know that there is a help and its curable… (THESE ARE PATIENTS WORDING).
Actually, Coccydynia is not a cancerous condition its curable but with proper interventions. You need to meet the specialist on time for fastest recovery. If anyone is suffering from Coccydynia/Tailbone Pain, then consult us for treatment. As early diagnosis and treatment will resolve the future problems.

This is just a short informative post; hope it will answer so many questions. If anyone has any queries you can mail me your issues on my mail id -zuha_pt@yahoo.com.

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