Coccyx Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Could you please provide more context or specific information regarding the spinal terminus?

I injured my tailbone when I was in the fourth or fifth grade (around 10 or 11 years old) after falling on my buttocks.
It was very painful at the time, but I didn't think much of it.
Since then, whenever I sit with my knees bent against a wall, my coccyx hurts a lot.
Recently, it has gotten worse; sitting in a chair for a while causes soreness in my coccyx, and even standing can be somewhat painful.
I find myself wanting to sit down, but lying on my stomach is the only position that doesn't hurt and actually feels comfortable.

Lately, I've also experienced occasional severe soreness in my knees and ankles (which doesn't feel like muscle soreness).
I've read many articles suggesting this could be due to intense exercise, but I haven't been doing any more physical activity than usual (just walking to class).
Additionally, I sometimes feel soreness in my back, which only feels better when I stretch.
I'm not sure if this is due to poor posture or some other reason.
Should I go to the hospital for an examination? Which department should I consult? Thank you for your response, doctor.

wety, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/14

Dr. Zhou Hongzhi reply Orthopedics

1.
It may be a coccygeal fracture; an X-ray examination should be performed.
If there is an inward curvature of the coccygeal fracture, it may affect natural childbirth.
2.
Insufficient exercise can also cause pain.
3.
Lumbar muscle fatigue and poor posture can lead to spinal curvature.
It is recommended to visit a hospital for examination, either in orthopedics or rehabilitation medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/07/14

More Info

Coccyx pain, also known as coccydynia, can be a distressing condition that significantly affects your quality of life. It often arises from trauma, such as a fall onto the buttocks, which seems to be the case in your situation when you were around 10 or 11 years old. The coccyx, or tailbone, is a small triangular bone at the base of the spine, and it can become painful due to various reasons, including injury, prolonged sitting, or even certain medical conditions.

Causes of Coccyx Pain
1. Trauma: As you mentioned, your pain began after a fall. Trauma to the coccyx can lead to bruising or fractures, which may cause persistent pain, especially when sitting or standing up.

2. Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods, especially on hard surfaces, can exacerbate coccyx pain. This is particularly true if your posture is poor or if you are sitting in a way that puts pressure on the coccyx.

3. Infections or Tumors: Though less common, infections or tumors in the area can also lead to pain.

4. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as arthritis or other degenerative diseases can affect the coccyx and surrounding structures, leading to pain.

Symptoms
The symptoms of coccyx pain can vary but typically include:
- Pain at the base of the spine, especially when sitting or rising from a seated position.

- Discomfort that may radiate to the hips, thighs, or lower back.

- Pain that improves when lying down or in certain positions, such as leaning forward.

Given your description of pain worsening with sitting and improving when lying down, it aligns with typical symptoms of coccydynia. Additionally, the pain in your knees and ankles could be related to compensatory changes in your posture due to the discomfort in your coccyx. Poor posture can lead to strain on other joints and muscles, resulting in pain in areas like the back, knees, and ankles.

When to Seek Help
It is advisable to seek medical attention if:
- The pain persists or worsens over time.

- You experience significant difficulty in performing daily activities.

- You notice swelling, redness, or any unusual changes in the area.

- You have associated symptoms such as fever, which could indicate an infection.

Which Specialist to See
For coccyx pain, you might consider starting with a visit to a primary care physician or a family doctor. They can perform an initial evaluation and may refer you to a specialist if necessary. Depending on your symptoms, you might be referred to:
- Orthopedic Specialist: They focus on musculoskeletal issues and can evaluate any structural problems.

- Pain Management Specialist: They can provide various treatment options, including injections or physical therapy.

- Physical Therapist: They can help with exercises and techniques to improve posture and alleviate pain.

Conclusion
In summary, your coccyx pain likely stems from the trauma you experienced as a child, compounded by your sitting habits and posture. It is important to address this pain early to prevent it from becoming a chronic issue. Seeking medical advice will help you understand the underlying causes and receive appropriate treatment. Meanwhile, consider adjusting your sitting posture, using cushions designed for coccyx pain, and incorporating gentle stretching or strengthening exercises to support your back and pelvic area.

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