Tailbone Injuries: Symptoms, Concerns, and Treatment Options

Hello, I would like to inquire about a spinal issue, specifically coccygeal protrusion?

During middle school, I injured myself while playing basketball.
I accidentally fell directly onto my tailbone, which caused such severe pain that I couldn't stand up.
At that moment, I felt like I couldn't feel my lower body.
Eventually, I had to crawl to get around.
I don't remember how long it took before I could stand up again, but I never sought any medical examination, not even an X-ray, until now.
I believe this injury is the reason why the shape of my buttocks and groin area looks unusual.
Specifically, I noticed that there is a bulge on the left side of my buttock, which looks very unattractive.
Pressing on it doesn't cause pain, but it feels odd.
However, when I press deeper, it seems to be related to my tailbone.
I suspect that my tailbone may have shifted downward.
Generally, I don't have major issues, but standing or sitting for extended periods can lead to some discomfort, which usually subsides after a while.
I just find the appearance quite strange and would like to know if there could be any long-term consequences.
Since I'm unsure about the symptoms, I haven't been able to find relevant information online.
Thank you.
P.S.
I wonder if the doctor has seen the movie "The Beauty Inside"? I feel like my situation is somewhat similar to the character of the male lead's good friend, but mine is much less severe.

Xiao Mao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/01

Dr. Zhou Hongzhi reply Orthopedics

You're being quite stubborn.
The year is almost over, and it's time to go to the hospital for a check-up.
It's time to get an X-ray!

Reply Date: 2005/02/01

More Info

Tailbone injuries, also known as coccydynia, can be quite painful and may lead to various complications if not properly addressed. Your experience of injuring your tailbone during a basketball game and the subsequent symptoms you described are not uncommon. Tailbone injuries can result from direct trauma, such as falling or sitting down hard, and can lead to a range of symptoms including pain, discomfort while sitting or standing for prolonged periods, and even changes in the shape of the surrounding tissues.

Symptoms of Tailbone Injuries
The symptoms of a tailbone injury can vary widely among individuals. Common symptoms include:
1. Localized Pain: Pain at the base of the spine, which can be sharp or dull. This pain may worsen when sitting, standing, or during bowel movements.

2. Swelling and Bruising: In some cases, there may be visible swelling or bruising around the tailbone area.

3. Discomfort in Sitting Positions: Many individuals find it uncomfortable to sit for long periods, often needing to shift positions frequently.

4. Radiating Pain: Pain may radiate to the lower back, hips, or even the legs, depending on the severity of the injury.

5. Changes in Shape: As you mentioned, there may be changes in the appearance of the surrounding tissues, which could be due to inflammation or muscle spasms.

Treatment Options
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain is crucial. This includes sitting for long periods or engaging in high-impact sports until the pain subsides.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the tailbone and improve flexibility, which may alleviate some discomfort.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling.

5. Cushions: Using a specially designed cushion when sitting can help relieve pressure on the tailbone.

6. Injections: In severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain.

Concerns and Future Implications
Regarding your concerns about potential long-term effects or complications from your tailbone injury, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. While many individuals recover fully from tailbone injuries, some may experience chronic pain or discomfort. The protrusion you mentioned could be related to muscle tension or changes in the surrounding soft tissues rather than a direct displacement of the tailbone itself.

Pregnancy and Delivery Considerations
If you are considering pregnancy in the future, it is essential to discuss your tailbone injury with your healthcare provider. While tailbone injuries typically do not directly affect pregnancy, discomfort during pregnancy can be exacerbated by changes in posture and weight distribution. Additionally, during labor, the position of the tailbone can impact the delivery process, so it is crucial to have a plan in place.

Conclusion
In summary, tailbone injuries can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications. It is advisable to seek medical attention if you experience persistent pain or changes in your symptoms. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific situation. Regular follow-ups may also be necessary to monitor any changes in your condition, especially if you notice worsening symptoms or new concerns arise.

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