Tailbone Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies

About coccygeal pain?

Hello Doctor, I experience a sharp pain on the left side of my coccyx after sitting or standing for long periods, especially when I stand up straight.
It becomes particularly painful when I try to stand on my left leg alone, which also makes me feel unstable and causes pain.
However, when I lie down on my bed, I initially feel pain, but after lying down for a while, the condition improves, even alleviating the pain that initially triggered it.
Therefore, my symptoms reset every morning.
After a full day of activity, the pain returns in the evening.
My history includes falling off a swing during elementary school, landing on my side, and I started practicing squats about a month ago.
The symptoms began to appear around that same time.
Thank you very much for your response, Doctor!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/09

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, the coccyx area has muscles attached to the pelvis, and when standing on one leg, the muscles must exert effort to maintain pelvic balance.
Therefore, if there is pain, it can lead to instability.
My suggestion is to reduce prolonged sitting while cycling or riding a motorcycle, apply heat therapy frequently, and temporarily avoid deep squats.
If symptoms persist for more than a month, you should seek an orthopedic consultation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2021/08/09

More Info

Tailbone pain, medically known as coccydynia, can be a frustrating and debilitating condition that significantly impacts daily life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and potential relief strategies is essential for managing this discomfort effectively.

Causes of Tailbone Pain
Tailbone pain can arise from various factors, including:
1. Trauma or Injury: A fall or direct impact to the tailbone area, such as falling off a swing or sitting down hard, can lead to bruising or fractures of the coccyx. This is particularly relevant in your case, where you mentioned a childhood incident of falling from a swing.

2. Poor Posture: Prolonged sitting, especially in poor posture, can place undue pressure on the tailbone. This is exacerbated by activities like deep squats, which may strain the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

3. Muscle Strain: Overuse or strain of the muscles and ligaments around the coccyx can lead to inflammation and pain. This can occur from activities that involve repetitive movements or prolonged sitting.

4. Inflammation: Conditions such as coccygeal bursitis or inflammation of the surrounding soft tissues can also contribute to pain in the tailbone area.

5. Nerve Issues: Sometimes, nerve entrapment or irritation can cause pain that radiates to the tailbone, leading to discomfort when standing or sitting.

Symptoms of Tailbone Pain
The symptoms associated with tailbone pain can vary but typically include:
- Sharp or aching pain localized at the base of the spine, particularly when sitting or standing.

- Increased pain when transitioning from sitting to standing or during prolonged periods of sitting.

- Discomfort that may improve when lying down but returns after prolonged activity.

- Pain that may radiate to the surrounding areas, such as the buttocks or thighs.

Relief Strategies
Managing tailbone pain often requires a multifaceted approach:
1. Posture Correction: Maintaining proper posture while sitting can alleviate pressure on the tailbone. Using a cushion or a specially designed coccyx cushion can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce discomfort.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can strengthen the muscles around the coccyx and improve flexibility. A physical therapist can provide tailored exercises to address your specific symptoms and improve your overall posture.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. In some cases, a doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections for more severe pain.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can provide temporary relief. Heat can help relax tense muscles, while cold can reduce inflammation.

5. Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain, such as prolonged sitting or certain exercises, can help manage symptoms. Gradually reintroducing activities as tolerated may also be beneficial.

6. Alternative Therapies: Some individuals find relief through acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, or massage therapy. These therapies can help address muscle tension and improve circulation in the affected area.

Conclusion
Given your history of trauma and recent activities, it is plausible that your tailbone pain is related to a combination of past injuries and current physical strain. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough examination and possibly recommend imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions. A tailored treatment plan that includes physical therapy, pain management strategies, and lifestyle modifications can significantly improve your quality of life and alleviate the discomfort associated with tailbone pain.

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