Coccyx Fracture: Symptoms, Recovery, and Long-Term Effects

Coccygeal fracture sequelae

On February 26, I fell while skiing in South Korea, landing on my back and hitting my tailbone.
When I went to a local hospital for treatment, an X-ray revealed that I had a fracture of the coccyx.
Upon returning home, I visited the emergency room, where the doctor said there wasn't much that could be done aside from pain relief medication, and that the fracture would heal gradually.
He advised that I should have another X-ray in two to three months to confirm recovery.
However, after the injury, I experienced involuntary pain from uterine and vaginal contractions, and since returning home, I've been passing gas frequently and often feel the urge to use the restroom.
I've also noticed that when I have a strong urge to urinate, it's more difficult to hold it in than before, and holding it in causes pain in my coccyx.
1.
Are these all residual effects? Will I continue to experience them in the future?
2.
Will the residual effects disappear as my coccyx heals?
3.
Are there ways to improve these residual effects?
4.
Will this affect my ability to have children in the future? Thank you.

Duni, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/02

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

1.
There will be pain for a period of time after a fracture.

2.
Over time, it will improve, and the pain may disappear after six months to a year.

3.
Usually, there are no lasting sequelae.

4.
No, the fracture does not affect the birth canal, so there is no need for concern.

Reply Date: 2019/03/02

More Info

A coccyx fracture, commonly known as a tailbone fracture, can occur due to a fall or direct impact to the area, such as in your case while skiing. The symptoms of a coccyx fracture typically include localized pain at the base of the spine, especially when sitting, standing, or moving from a seated position. Other symptoms may include swelling, bruising, and in some cases, pain during bowel movements or sexual intercourse.

1. Post-Injury Symptoms: The symptoms you are experiencing, such as involuntary uterine contractions, increased urgency to urinate, and difficulty holding it in, may not be directly caused by the coccyx fracture itself but could be related to the trauma and the surrounding structures. The pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder and uterus, may be affected by the injury, leading to these sensations. It is important to note that while these symptoms can be distressing, they are not uncommon following a coccyx injury.

2. Recovery and Long-Term Effects: Generally, coccyx fractures heal on their own over time, often within a few weeks to a few months. As the fracture heals, many patients find that their symptoms gradually improve. However, some individuals may experience lingering pain or discomfort, known as coccydynia, even after the fracture has healed. This can be due to scar tissue formation or ongoing sensitivity in the area.

3. Improving Symptoms: To manage and potentially improve your symptoms, consider the following approaches:
- Pain Management: Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your healthcare provider. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.

- Physical Therapy: Engaging in pelvic floor physical therapy may help strengthen the muscles in the pelvic area and alleviate some of the symptoms you are experiencing. A specialized therapist can provide exercises tailored to your needs.

- Cushions and Positioning: Using a cushion when sitting can help relieve pressure on the coccyx. There are specially designed cushions available that can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce discomfort.

- Gentle Stretching: Incorporating gentle stretching and mobility exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the pelvic area.

4. Impact on Future Pregnancy: Regarding your concern about future pregnancies, while a coccyx fracture can cause discomfort, it typically does not have a direct impact on fertility or the ability to carry a pregnancy to term. However, if you continue to experience significant pain or discomfort, it would be wise to discuss this with your obstetrician or a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine before becoming pregnant. They can provide guidance on managing any pain during pregnancy and ensure that you receive appropriate care.

In summary, while the symptoms you are experiencing may be concerning, they are not uncommon following a coccyx fracture. With time, appropriate management, and possibly physical therapy, many individuals find that their symptoms improve significantly. If you have ongoing concerns or if your symptoms worsen, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

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