Pain or soreness occurring in and around the coccyx – the three to five fused vertebrae at the base of the spine that are often referred to as the tail bone – can vary from general discomfort to bouts of sudden sharp or nagging pain. Also known as coccygeal pain, this condition tends to be brought on or made worse by sitting down.
Causes for Coccydydynia
A number of very different sets of circumstances appear to be responsible for trigger episodes of tenderness and pain in and around the coccyx region. Muscle spasms that have been brought on by prolonged tension and stress might be a trigger, for example, as might a damaged ligament that has been caused by a heavy blow or fall. In a large number of cases, coccydynia is he result of sitting in more or less one position for a very long period of time. Many women also suffer bouts of pain around the coccyx after giving birth. It is always important to have these symptoms checked by a doctor.
Symptoms and Diagnosis for Coccydynia
You will find it uncomfortable and often very painful to sit down, with the pain getting worse the longer you stay in one position. There may also be some inflammation and bruising in the coccyx area. Occasionally, bowel movements can be painful. Your doctor will make a diagnosis by performing a physical examination, and may order X-rays if he suspects you have broken bones.
Risks and Recovery for Coccydynia
Coccyx pain can be difficult to treat, so it needs an expert eye and awareness of the full range of related conditions that can occur; as such, the main risks stem from inadequate treatment. If your pain persists for several months and is consistently severe enough to make daily life difficult, a local injection of cortisone may reduce any inflammation and alleviate your symptoms. In extreme cases, where a fall or blow has damaged the coccyx, you may need surgery to remove any loose bone fragments and possibly the last few segments of the coccyx, but this is usually a last resort.
Coccydynia Specialist
