Fact Checked
A coccyx injury is due to pain and discomfort in the tailbone areas and the condition is called coccydynia and typically caused by dislocation, bruise and fracture or break of the coccyx. The coccyx is a triangular bony structure at the bottom of the vertebral column and it has 3-5 bony segments that is linked by joints and ligaments.
Women are more prone to coccyx injury because their pelvis is broader and coccyx is more exposed.
Causes
- Falling on the tailbone in a seated position, especially against a hard surface.
- A direct blow to the tailbone like those that happens when playing contact sports.
The pain becomes worse especially when sitting for long periods of time or direct pressure to the tailbone area. - During childbirth, the coccyx can be fractured or injured
- A repetitive straining or friction on the coccyx especially when rowing or bicycling that causes damage the coccyx.
- Sometimes, coccyx injuries can be caused by compression of the nerve roots, bone spurs, injuries to other parts of the spine and local infections.
Symptoms
- Bowel movements and especially when straining causes pain
- Traumatic injury in the area
- The pain becomes worse especially when sitting for long periods of time or direct pressure to the tailbone area
- Pain and tenderness in the area.
Treatment of coccyx injury
- Rest the area especially the first 24-48 hours after the injury.
- Apply an ice pack or cold compress on the area for at least 15-20 minutes at 4-8 times throughout the day.
- Apply a warm compress to the area at least 20 minutes for 4 times every day once the swelling lessens. This also helps with the proper circulation of blood in the area and helps lessen the pain. If a heating pad is not available, take a hot bath to help with the condition.
- Avoid massaging the area in order to prevent the injury from getting worse
- Sit in a pillow ring or an inflatable donut since it helps with the condition. The person should alternately sit and stand on the inflatable donut that is necessary for comfort which helps with the healing of the tailbone injury.
- Take the prescribed anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen in order to help lessen the pain and swelling of the affected area
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time on hard surfaces. When seated, alternate sitting on each side of the buttocks and lean forward to place the body weight away from the tailbone.
- Wear proper protective padding when participating in contact sports in order to prevent tailbone injuries.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements, consume plenty of fibers and fluids as well as take mild stool softeners while the tailbone pain is in the process of healing.
FACT CHECK
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000573.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tailbone-pain/expert-answers/faq-20058211
https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/tailbone-coccyx-injury#1