Tailbone (Coccyx) Injury

What is A Tailbone Injury?

A coccyx injury refers to pain and discomfort in the tailbone area. If the tailbone is injured, bruising, fracture, or discoloration may occur. Although some report a tailbone injury is very slow to heal, however, most are manageable.

A the bottom of the vertebrae is a small triangular, bony like structure at the bottom of the spinal column, called the coccyx. This area is constructed of three to five bony segments. They are held in place by ligaments and joints.

Causes of a Coccyx Injury

Most injuries of the tailbone are caused by trauma to the coccyx area, such as:

• A woman’s coccyx may be injured during childbirth.
• A direct blow, such as in contact sports.
• A fall in the seated position.
• Repetitive strains, such as on a bicycle or rowing.
• Less common causes of coccyx injuries include bone spurs, compression of nerve roots, injuries to other parts of the spine, local infections, and tumors.

Tailbone Injury Symptoms

Symptoms of a coccyx injury include the following:

• Pain and tenderness
• Bruising in the tailbone area
• Pain worsens with prolonged sitting
• Straining bowel movements are painful

Treatments Options

Rarely, a tailbone injury requires emergency room visits. However, if your symptoms are bothering you, it’s important to call a doctor.

Home Remedies

• Avoid prolonged sitting on hard surfaces.
• Do not lean forward when sitting. Instead, direct your weight away from the tailbone.
• Try anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain.
• Doughnut cushions are available for purchase to prevent the tailbone from contacting the flat surface.
• High in fiber foods are important to soften stools.

Medical Treatments

If home remedies are not useful, a doctor can help provide further relief. Fortunately, surgical interventions are rare for this injury. Additional medical treatment includes:

• Prescription pain medication
• Stool softeners to prevent constipation
• Injections of local anesthetics
• Coccyx may be surgically removed in rare cases.

If you are experiencing back pain call us to speak to one of our spine surgeons at 888-409-8006. Offices are conveniently located throughout South Florida; Boa Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs & Plantation.