Chiropractic treatment of coccygodynia via instrumental adjusting procedures using activator methods chiropractic technique

Objective: To discuss a case of coccygodynia that responded favorably to co nservative chiropractic adjusting procedures with the Activator Methods Chi ropractic Technique (AMCT) and the Activator II Adjusting Instrument (AAI I I). Clinical Features: A 29-year-old woman had um emitting coccygeal pain of 3 weeks' duration. The problem began after she had moved heavy boxes while at work. The pain was characterized by a continual dull ache in the coccygeal region, accompanied by intermittent sharp pain, particularly upon sitting or rising from a seated position. She had been taking self-prescribed over- the-counter analgesics (aspirin and ibuprofen) for 3 weeks without obtainin g relief. Intervention and Outcome: Treatment consisted of mechanical force, manually assisted, short-lever (MFMA) chiropractic adjusting procedures to the cocc ygeal area, primarily the sacrococcygeal ligament. The AAI II was used to d eliver the adjustment according to diagnostic and treatment protocol specif ied for AMCT. The patient experienced a complete resolution of her pain aft er the first treatment. Conclusion: Chiropractic coccygeal manipulation may be effectively delivere d via instrumental adjustment in certain cases of coccygodynia. The use of an AAI II in administering the coccygeal adjustment has the benefit of bein g a gentle, noninvasive procedure, as well as being comfortably tolerated b y the patient. This method of coccygeal adjustment may bear consideration i n certain cases of coccygodynia.