Bruised Tailbone

Tailbone is the name for 'coccyx', which is a triangular bony structure located at the bottom of the vertebral column. It is actually not a single bone, but consists of three to five bony segments. An injury or trauma to the tailbone can result in a bruise as well as break, which can manifest in pain and discomfort in the coccyx area. The medical term for this condition is coccydynia. A bruised tailbone can cause a lot of pain and take considerable time to heal completely. It is prevalent more in women than men, mainly because the pelvis of women is broader than men, which leaves the coccyx more exposed to injury or trauma.

Bruise on the Tailbone

Causes
Most of the cases pain in the tailbone can be traced back to a fall or repetitive injury or strain to this part of the body, due to activities like, biking and cycling. In women, pregnancy and childbirth can be some of the important factors that can cause bruised tailbone. Direct blow to the coccyx, as in case of certain sports can also injure the coccyx and cause coccydynia. Apart from these, rarely, pain in the coccygeal region can be caused by bone spurs, tumors or compression or injury to the nerves close to this region. Occasionally, an injury to another part of the vertebral column can also radiate to the coccygeal region to cause pain and discomfort.

Symptoms
The most common and obvious symptom is the pain in the coccyx or the lower back region, especially while sitting and also when getting up from a sitting position. The pain can be quite acute while sitting or standing up and when the area is touched or pressure is applied on it. Activities that put more pressure on the area, such as bowel movement and also sexual intercourse can also produce an intense and acute pain. If bruised tailbone is caused by severe injury or trauma to the area, then you observe swelling and tenderness as well. Sometimes, the pain can also radiate from the lower back region to the legs.

Treatment
It is generally diagnosed by evaluating the symptoms and physical examination of the area. Sometimes, X-ray and MRI are performed to find out the extent of injury, fracture or dislocation associated with tailbone pain. Usually, the pain caused due to this condition can be managed with ice and heat pack. Ice pack should be used first for about 15 to 20 minutes. After 10 minutes, heat pack can be applied on the area. This can help to reduce the pain and swelling and thereby shorten the recovery time to a great extent. Generally, minor or moderate level of trauma to the tailbone would take a few weeks to heal completely, with proper rest and use of ice and heat pack.

However, if the pain is too intense, then pain medications and steroid injections can be required for pain relief. But, these medications should be taken only under the guidance of an expert physician. In the meantime, avoid or limit the activities like, sitting for a long period, that put excessive pressure on the area. If possible, use 'donut' cushion or pillow to sit on and try to lean forward while sitting. If you are experiencing pain during bowel movement, then increase the intake of fluid and fiber rich foods. If these measures fail to provide relief, then talk to your physician regarding the use of stool softeners.

During the recovery period, it is very important to not strain your tailbone or the lower back region, where the tailbone is located. Rarely, surgery can be required to treat this condition, if it is found to be caused by tumors. Therefore, one should consult a physician, if the symptoms persist for a long time. In the future, bruised tailbone caused by fall and injuries, especially those that are usually received in sport activities can be prevented by wearing appropriate protective cushions or equipment.