Tailbone Pain During Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions

I feel soreness in my coccyx every time I have a bowel movement?

I have a regular bowel movement habit every day, taking about one to three minutes each time.
For many years, I have felt discomfort in my coccyx during bowel movements, but recently the discomfort has increased.
What could be the possible reasons? Could it be related to prolonged sitting?

Miss Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/01

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, the act of defecation involves the pelvic muscles and nerves, which are related to the pelvic floor muscle group, bladder, urethra, uterus, vagina, rectum, and anus.
Muscle strength and elasticity may decrease with age or after childbirth.
It is advisable to avoid prolonged sitting and to engage in moderate exercise (such as running or brisk walking) or to practice Kegel exercises, which can help train the pelvic floor muscles.
If symptoms persist, it is recommended to follow up with a gynecologist.
Wishing you peace and health! Sincerely, Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/04/01

More Info

Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, especially when it interferes with daily activities such as bowel movements. Your description of experiencing increasing discomfort in the tailbone area during bowel movements suggests that there may be several underlying factors contributing to your symptoms.

Potential Causes of Tailbone Pain During Bowel Movements
1. Postural Issues: Long periods of sitting, especially in poor posture, can lead to strain on the muscles and ligaments surrounding the tailbone. If you have a habit of slouching or sitting in a way that puts pressure on the coccyx, this could exacerbate your pain. The tailbone is particularly sensitive to pressure, and prolonged sitting can lead to inflammation and discomfort.

2. Muscle Strain: The muscles and ligaments that support the tailbone can become strained due to repetitive movements or prolonged sitting. This strain can lead to pain that is felt more acutely during activities that involve the pelvic region, such as bowel movements.

3. Inflammation: Conditions such as coccydynia can involve inflammation of the tissues around the coccyx. This inflammation can be aggravated by activities that put pressure on the area, including sitting on hard surfaces or straining during bowel movements.

4. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in bowel movements. If these muscles are tight or dysfunctional, they can lead to discomfort during bowel movements, which may be felt in the tailbone area.

5. Underlying Conditions: In some cases, tailbone pain can be associated with other medical conditions, such as infections, tumors, or even referred pain from other areas of the body. If the pain persists or worsens, it may be worth discussing further diagnostic imaging or evaluations with a healthcare provider.

Solutions and Treatment Options
1. Posture Correction: Focus on maintaining good posture while sitting. Use ergonomic chairs that provide support to the lower back and tailbone. Consider using a cushion or a "donut" pillow that relieves pressure on the coccyx while sitting.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help you with exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and surrounding muscles. They can also teach you techniques to improve your posture and reduce strain on the tailbone.

3. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Heat can relax tight muscles, while cold can numb the area and reduce swelling.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

5. Avoiding Strain: During bowel movements, try to avoid straining. Ensure that your diet is high in fiber to promote regular and easy bowel movements. Staying hydrated is also essential.

6. Alternative Therapies: Some individuals find relief through acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy. These therapies can help alleviate muscle tension and improve overall pelvic health.

7. Consultation with Specialists: If your symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, consider consulting with a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist or a pain management specialist. They can provide further evaluation and may recommend additional diagnostic tests or treatments.

Conclusion
In summary, tailbone pain during bowel movements can be attributed to various factors, including poor posture, muscle strain, and inflammation. Addressing these issues through posture correction, physical therapy, and pain management can significantly improve your quality of life. If your symptoms continue to worsen or do not respond to treatment, seeking further evaluation from a healthcare professional is essential to rule out any underlying conditions. Remember, taking proactive steps to manage your symptoms can lead to better outcomes and a more comfortable daily routine.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Tailbone Pain Associated with Bowel Urgency: Causes and Solutions

Hello, Dr. Ke! Last month, I underwent a colonoscopy at the hospital, which revealed an issue with internal hemorrhoids. However, since there was no pain and very little bleeding, the doctor said no special treatment was necessary. Over the past two weeks, I have started to exper...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. It should not be related to hemorrhoids. If there is no improvement after consulting a rehabilitation specialist, you may consider having a gynecologist examine for possible pelvic inflammatory disease. 2. If it is an anal or rectal abscess, these symptoms may indeed occur in...

Understanding Lower Back Pain During Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions

During bowel movements (including the preparation for bowel movements), there is a noticeable and intense pain in the lower back and pelvic region, as well as soreness in the legs (both the thighs and calves). Sometimes the soreness is so severe that it makes it difficult to conc...

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello, your issue is actually caused by chronic constipation. I recommend referring to another response. Thank you for your message.

Understanding Coccydynia: Can Tailbone Injury Affect Bowel Movements?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about an issue I have been experiencing. Two years ago, I accidentally bumped my coccyx against the corner of a chair, which caused significant pain for a while. Since then, I have noticed a persistent feeling of incomplete evacuation during bow...

Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics
Dear netizens, Coccygeal issues can be categorized into coccyx fractures and dislocations, often caused by direct trauma, particularly from impacts to the area (such as landing directly on the buttocks). Patients typically experience coccygeal pain and difficulty sitting or sta...

Understanding Coccydynia: Causes and Treatment for Tailbone Pain

Recently, I have been experiencing a sharp pain near my coccyx, to the point where I cannot bend over. The pain usually starts after lying down for a long time and tends to ease a bit after sitting for two or three days. I have suspected inflammation, so I have taken anti-inflamm...

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics
Common causes of coccyx pain include trauma and poor posture, with some cases having no identifiable cause. Treatment methods include reducing irritation (avoiding all movements or positions that may trigger pain) and anti-inflammatory medications.