Tailbone Pain

Tailbone pain, also known as coccydynia, is a condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the coccyx, which is the small, triangular bone at the very bottom of the spine, commonly referred to as the tailbone.

This pain can range from mild to severe and may be caused by various factors, including:

• Trauma: Injury to the tailbone, such as a fall or direct impact, can result in tailbone pain. 

• Repetitive Strain: Activities that involve repeated sitting or cycling, which put pressure on the coccyx, can lead to pain over time. 

• Childbirth: In some cases, women may experience coccyx pain after childbirth due to pressure or positioning of the baby during labor. 

• Bone Spur or Dislocation: Abnormalities or injuries to the coccyx, such as a bone spur or dislocation, can lead to pain. 

• Infections or Tumors: Although rare, infections or tumors in or near the coccyx area can cause discomfort. 

Tailbone pain can be sharp or dull, and it may worsen when sitting or with movement. It can be challenging to manage and may require rest, cushioning when sitting, pelvic floor physical therapy, pain medication, injections or, in rare cases, surgery for severe or persistent cases. 

Available treatment options for tailbone pain include:

• Rest: Avoid sitting or activities that worsen the pain, giving the coccyx time to heal. 

• Cushions: Use a specialized coccyx cushion or donut-shaped cushion when sitting to relieve pressure on the tailbone. 

• Cold Therapy: Applying cold packs to the painful area can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. 

• Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage. 

• Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Our Pelvic Floor physical therapist can provide education, stretches, exercises and manual techniques to alleviate pain and improve flexibility. 

• Dietary recommendations: A diet that’s rich in fiber, fruit, vegetables, Omega 3 fatty acids and fiber can help reduce your body’s overall inflammation and decrease the risk of constipation. Staying well hydrated can also help. 

• Heat Therapy- Soaking in a warm bath or using a warm compress can provide relief from tailbone pain.

• Injections: In some cases, injections of corticosteroids maybe needed to reduce inflammation and pain.

• Surgical Removal (Rare): In rare cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical removal of the coccyx may be considered as a last resort. 

• Posture and Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting good posture and avoiding activities that strain the coccyx, like sitting for prolonged periods, can help prevent pain. 

If you are suffering from tailbone pain and it’s not getting better on its own.  It’s important to get the care you deserve and to determine the underlying cause and the most appropriate treatment plan. Tailbone pain can often be managed effectively with the right approach and lifestyle adjustments.