Tailbone Pain

Coccyx or tailbone is the last segment of the spinal column and is located between the buttocks. This bony structure called coccyx consists of around three to five vertebrae, which can either be fused or separate. In general, the coccyx is situated deep inside, so as to avoid injury and trauma. However, some people, especially women, have prominent tailbone, which are more vulnerable to injury. Any injury to the coccyx may cause bruise, fracture or dislocation of the spinal column structure, causing tailbone pain.

Causes

Pain, that is specifically located at the coccyx or tailbone is called coccydynia or tailbone pain. It is otherwise known as coccygodynia, coccygeal pain or coccaglia. Pain in the butt region can be caused by various reasons like sore gluteal muscles, but, only when it is related to the coccyx, it can be considered coccydynia. In most cases, this pain is caused by direct injury to the coccyx. Females are found to be more vulnerable to this condition, as they have broad and prominent tailbone. This makes them prone to tailbone injury during childbirth. Tailbone pain during pregnancy is also very common, as the uterus, which grows in size, may exert pressure on the tailbone. Some women experience it after childbirth. Injuries like falling in a seated position or a direct blow to the coccyx may also cause this pain. It has also been observed that people who indulge in regular cycling or rowing are also prone to this condition. In some cases, tailbone pain is found to be idiopathic in nature and rarely, it can be caused by bone spurs, tumors, compression of nerve roots or injuries to other parts of the spine and local infections.

How to Identify Tailbone Pain

As there are many other conditions like sciatica, that can cause pain in the tailbone region, you have to know the exact symptoms of coccydynia, in order to identify the pain. The most common symptom of coccydynia is tailbone pain when sitting, especially for longer periods. The pain may aggravate while sitting on softer surfaces, rather than hard ones and gets worse with movement. Tenderness of the coccyx region, shooting pains down the legs, pain during bowel movements and sexual intercourse/ menstruation, may also point towards coccydynia. The affected person may also experience weakness and sleeping problems. Usually, the condition is diagnosed with physical examination of the patient, but, sometimes, X-rays and other advanced diagnostic techniques like MRI may be required. A simple method adopted for diagnosis is to inject local anesthesia to the affected part. If the patient gets immediate relief with that, then it can be concluded that the pain is related to the coccyx only.

Tailbone pain treatment include medication like painkillers and stool softeners and injections. Strict home care may also be required. In some cases, if the patient does not respond to medications and home care, surgery to remove the tailbone (coccygectomy) may be suggested. This is usually done in cancer patients. Otherwise, preventive measures, along with medications may provide relief to the patient. Patients have to use special cushions for sitting, he/she has to avoid sitting for long hours. Some remedies which are effective in relieving tailbone pain are application of ice over the area and cold compress. In short, if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult your doctor and get it diagnosed at the earliest.