First-the tailbone pain. Coccyx pain can originate from the coccyx but there are other sources that can refer to this region. There is a condition called pudendal or sacral neuropathy which is a subset of peripheral neuropathy and explanation can be found on this website. This is a condition where the nerves themselves are “sick”. Rarely, disc hernation in the lower lumbar spine can also cause radiation of pain to this region.
For the record, it is extremely rare to have a coccyx fracture. The coccyx is a series of small bones hooked together by ligaments. You really don’t “fracture” the coccyx but “sprain” the coccyx by tearing some of these ligaments.
I have removed exactly 3 coccyx’s in my 30 years of being a surgeon so this is an extremely rare procedure. I make sure the coccyx is the pain generator by having the patient undergo a diagnostic block of the coccyx (see pain diary). If there is no immediate relief that lasts 2-3 hours, I question if the coccyx is really the pain generator.
I am surprised that your disorder of “esophageal dysmotility with spasm and a hiatal hernia” took so long for diagnosis. Barium swallows and esophageal scopes generally will diagnose these conditions.
You need a complete work-up of your neck to determine your diagnosis of continuing neck and shoulder pain. This would entail a complete history and physical examination and new imaging studies of which could be X-rays, CT scan and MRI.
Dr. Corenman
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.