Chronic Tailbone Pain (Coccydynia)? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever experienced pain at the very bottom of your spine—especially when sitting—you may be dealing with a condition called coccydynia, or tailbone pain. While it’s often overlooked, this condition can significantly impact daily life. Let’s take a closer look at what coccydynia is, how it’s diagnosed, what treatments are available, and whether it’s curable.
What Is Coccydynia?
Coccydynia is pain in the coccyx, the small, triangular bone at the base of the spine—commonly referred to as the tailbone. This area can become inflamed or irritated due to trauma, prolonged sitting, childbirth, or even without a clear cause.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain while sitting, especially on hard surfaces
- Discomfort when leaning backward
- Pain during bowel movements or sexual intercourse
- Localized tenderness at the tailbone
What Causes It?
Some common causes of coccydynia include:
- Direct trauma (e.g., a fall onto the tailbone)
- Repetitive strain from prolonged sitting or cycling
- Childbirth, due to pressure or injury during delivery
- Degenerative changes or bone spurs
- Idiopathic cases, where no specific cause is found
How Is Coccydynia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically starts with a thorough medical history and physical exam. Your physician may:
- Palpate the coccyx area to assess for tenderness
- Perform imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to rule out fractures, tumors, or other spinal pathology
- Occasionally use diagnostic injections to confirm the coccyx as the source of pain
Treatment Options for Coccydynia
Most cases of coccydynia can be managed conservatively. Treatment options include:
1. Activity Modification
- Avoid prolonged sitting or use a donut-shaped or wedge cushion to offload pressure on the coccyx.
2. Medications
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Physical Therapy
- Targeted stretching, pelvic floor therapy, and manual mobilization techniques can be very effective.
4. Interventional Treatments
- Coccygeal injections (local anesthetic + steroid) for pain relief
- Ganglion Impar block, a nerve block targeting the pain pathway
5. Surgery
- Coccygectomy (removal of the coccyx) is rarely needed but may be considered in severe, persistent cases that do not respond to other treatments.
Final Thoughts
Coccydynia is a real and often frustrating condition, but with proper diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan, most people can find relief. If you’re struggling with persistent tailbone pain, consult a pain management specialist to explore your options.
Need help managing tailbone pain? Book a consultation to discuss your personalized treatment plan.
