Managing Tailbone Pain After a Fall: Home Care and Treatment Tips

Fell and sat down on the stairs?

Hello doctor, a few days ago I was moving things and accidentally fell down the stairs.
It hurt a lot at the moment, and the next day I went to see an orthopedic doctor.
He said there was no bone injury.
After taking the medication he prescribed, the pain went away, but the following night it started to hurt quite a bit.
It hurts when I get up from lying down and also when I sit.
Later, I went to see a rehabilitation specialist, who said I injured my coccyx deeply and that I need to undergo lumbar traction, electrical therapy, and heat therapy.
However, after returning home, I have been using ice packs instead.
Now I’m unsure how to manage this at home.
What should I eat that would be beneficial? What actions can I take to improve my treatment?

Ying, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/15

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Coccygeal bone contusions are usually very painful, with the pain lasting about one to two weeks.
Generally, if there is no fracture, the condition will gradually improve with medication and local heat application (which can be started two days after the injury).
In the short term, it is advisable to avoid putting pressure on the painful area while sitting in a chair, and also to avoid compressing it while lying flat.

Reply Date: 2015/09/15

More Info

Managing tailbone pain after a fall can be challenging, but with the right home care strategies and treatment tips, you can facilitate your recovery. Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, often results from trauma, such as falling or sitting for prolonged periods on hard surfaces. Here’s a comprehensive guide to managing your symptoms at home.

Immediate Care
1. Rest: After a fall, it’s crucial to give your body time to heal. Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain, such as prolonged sitting or heavy lifting.
2. Ice Therapy: In the first 48 hours post-injury, applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed. After the initial 48 hours, you can switch to heat therapy to promote blood flow and relaxation of the muscles.

3. Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. If you find aspirin ineffective, consider trying these alternatives, but always follow the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Supportive Measures
4. Cushioned Seating: When sitting, use a specially designed cushion, such as a donut-shaped pillow or a wedge cushion, to relieve pressure on the tailbone. This can significantly improve comfort while sitting.

5. Posture Awareness: Maintain good posture while sitting and standing. Avoid slouching, as this can put additional pressure on your tailbone. When sitting, try to keep your back straight and your feet flat on the floor.

6. Gentle Movement: While rest is important, gentle movement can help prevent stiffness. Engage in light activities, such as walking, to promote circulation. Avoid any movements that cause pain.

Rehabilitation Techniques
7. Physical Therapy: If your pain persists, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide tailored exercises to strengthen the muscles around your tailbone and improve flexibility. Techniques may include stretching, strengthening exercises, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.

8. Heat Therapy: After the initial swelling has gone down, applying heat can help relax tight muscles and improve blood flow. Use a heating pad or warm compress for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

Dietary Considerations
9. Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in fiber can help prevent constipation, which can exacerbate tailbone pain during bowel movements. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

10. Avoiding Irritants: If you experience discomfort during bowel movements, consider avoiding foods that can irritate the digestive system, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.

Monitoring Symptoms
11. Keep Track of Pain Levels: Monitor your pain levels and any changes in symptoms. If you notice increased pain, swelling, or difficulty with bowel movements, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider.

12. Follow-Up Care: If your symptoms do not improve within a few weeks or if they worsen, seek medical advice. Further evaluation may be necessary to rule out any underlying issues, such as fractures or infections.

Conclusion
Tailbone pain can be a frustrating condition, but with proper home care and attention to your body’s signals, you can manage your symptoms effectively. Remember to listen to your body, avoid activities that worsen your pain, and seek professional help if needed. By implementing these strategies, you can promote healing and return to your normal activities more comfortably.

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