Coccydynia / Coccyx Pain / Tailbone Pain, a complete guide

Coccyndynia (also known as tailbone pain) can appear after trauma to the tailbone, after prolonged sitting on an upadded seat of after a long bikeride. Sometimes it happens without causes and tends to worsen when sitting.

What is Coccydynia?

Coccydynia, also known as tailbone pain, is discomfort or pain in the area of the coccyx, the small triangular bone at the base of your spinal column. This condition can make sitting and leaning back extremely uncomfortable. It’s more common in women than in men, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, childbirth, repetitive strain, or sometimes the cause is unknown.

The Importance of Coccydynia Assessment

An accurate diagnosis of coccydynia is crucial for effective treatment. Your chiropractor will perform a thorough assessment which includes a detailed medical history, a physical examination, and possibly diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRI. This assessment will help the chiropractor understand the underlying cause of your pain, whether it’s an injury, structural irregularities, or other issues.

During the physical examination, your chiropractor will likely apply light pressure to the area to locate the exact spot of pain. You may also be asked to sit and move in different positions to help identify the actions that trigger your discomfort.

Treatment Options for Coccydynia

Once coccydynia is diagnosed, there are several treatment options available:

Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic treatments can be used for coccydynia. Your chiropractor will use a variety of techniques to help alleviate your pain, such as spinal adjustments, manual therapy, and specific exercises.

Education: Understanding your condition is a powerful tool in managing it. Your chiropractor will provide advice on how to manage your condition, including tips on posture, movements, and other lifestyle modifications that can help avoid triggers of pain.

Heat or Ice: Applying heat or ice to the area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Cushioning: Using a well-designed seat cushion can help relieve pressure on the coccyx when sitting. This will be discussed if it is appropriate. Ergonomic recommendations may be provided.

Medical Interventions: In some cases, your chiropractor may recommend working with your GP for additional treatments. This can include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain, or possibly injections if other treatments are ineffective.

Always remember, the most effective treatment depends on the underlying cause of your coccydynia.

Coccydynia FAQs

What is coccydynia?

Coccydynia, also known as coccyx pain or tailbone pain, is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the area of the coccyx, which is the small, triangular bone at the base of the spine. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, chronic pain that makes it difficult to sit or stand for long periods of time.

What can cause tailbone pain?

There are a number of possible causes of coccydynia, or tailbone pain. Some of the most common include: Trauma or injury to the coccyx, such as from falling or from childbirth; Repetitive strain on the coccyx, such as from prolonged sitting or from certain sports or activities ; Medical conditions, such as arthritis, an infection, or a tumor; Natural aging, which can cause the bones and tissues in the coccyx to become more brittle and susceptible to injury; In some cases, the exact cause of coccydynia may not be clear. It is also possible for multiple factors to contribute to the development of the condition.

What are treatments for tailbone pain?

Treatment for coccydynia often includes pain medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

What are symptoms of coccydynia?

The main symptom of coccydynia is pain and discomfort in the area of the tailbone, or coccyx. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent. Other symptoms of coccydynia may include difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time, discomfort when moving the tailbone area, and pain when standing up or leaning back. In some cases, people with coccydynia may also experience muscle spasms or numbness in the area around the tailbone. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

How to prevent tailbone pain?

There is no surefire way to prevent tailbone pain, or coccydynia. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this condition. For example, you can try to avoid falling or landing on your tailbone, which is a common cause of injury to this area. It is also important to maintain good posture, as this can help prevent strain on the tailbone. Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes can also help prevent tailbone pain. If you are pregnant, using a doughnut-shaped cushion can help relieve pressure on the tailbone. Talk to your doctor for more information and advice on preventing tailbone pain.

Are xrays useful for diagnosisng tailbone pain?

X-rays can be helpful in diagnosing coccydynia, or tailbone pain. An X-ray is a type of imaging test that uses radiation to create pictures of the inside of the body. In the case of coccydynia, an X-ray can help your doctor see if there is any damage or abnormalities in the bones of the tailbone that could be causing your pain. Most importantly x-rays can be used to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as a fracture or infection. Your doctor will be able to determine if an X-ray is necessary based on your symptoms and medical history.