Tailbone pain, medically known as coccydynia, is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities. As spine specialists, we often see patients struggling with this issue. In this post, we’ll explore coccydynia, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What is Coccydynia?

Coccydynia refers to pain in the coccyx, or tailbone, which is the small triangular bone at the bottom of the spine. This condition can range from a dull ache to sharp, shooting pain that worsens when sitting or during certain movements.

Causes of Tailbone Pain

1. Injury: The most common cause of tailbone pain is an injury such as a fall onto the tailbone area or direct trauma during contact sports.
2. Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods, especially on hard or uneven surfaces, can put excessive pressure on the coccyx (tailbone), leading to discomfort.
3. Degenerative Joint Changes: As with other joints, the coccyx can undergo degenerative changes that may cause pain.
4. Childbirth: Women may experience tailbone pain after childbirth due to the pressure and on the coccyx during vaginal delivery.
5. Repetitive Strain: Activities that involve repeated strain on the tailbone, like cycling or rowing, can lead to inflammation and pain.
6. Unknown Causes: In some cases, the exact cause of tailbone pain may not be identifiable.

Symptoms of Coccydynia

Common symptoms include:

• Pain when sitting, especially on hard surfaces
• Pain that worsens when standing up from a seated position
• Aching or tenderness in the lower back
• Pain during bowel movements
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse

Diagnosis and Treatment

Managing tailbone pain usually involves a combination of self-care measures, medical treatments, and occasionally more invasive procedures if the pain persists. Here are some common strategies:

Self-Care Measures

1. Cushioning: Use a donut cushion or a wedge cushion to sit on, which can relieve pressure on the tailbone.
2. Avoid prolonged sitting: Try to stand or walk periodically to reduce continuous pressure on the coccyx.
3. Apply ice or heat: An ice pack can be used for the first few days after a noticeable injury to reduce swelling, followed by heat packs to relieve tension and pain.

Medical Treatment

1. Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Physical therapy: Tailored exercises and manual therapy can help relieve pain, strengthen pelvic area muscles, and improve flexibility.
3. Manipulation: Some patients benefit from manual manipulation of the coccyx, which can be performed by a specialist such as an osteopath or chiropractor.

Invasive Treatments

1. Injections: Corticosteroid injections in the tailbone area can reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Surgery: In rare cases, if the pain is severe and does not respond to other treatments, surgical removal of the coccyx (coccygectomy) may be considered.

Prevention and Long-term Management

To prevent recurrence or manage chronic coccydynia:

, there are several steps you can take:

• Maintain good posture while sitting and standing
• Use ergonomic chairs and cushions
• Engage in regular exercise to strengthen core and pelvic muscles
• Maintain a healthy weight

Tailbone pain can significantly impact your quality of life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, relief is possible. If you’re experiencing persistent coccydynia, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to diagnose the specific cause of your tailbone pain, and to get a treatment plan that suits your specific needs. They might also recommend additional diagnostic measures like X-rays or MRI to rule out more serious conditions.