Advice

Pain at the bottom of the spine near the buttocks can be uncomfortable, frustrating, & sometimes alarming. This type of pain is often referred to as coccyx pain or coccydynia. It’s a common condition that affects many people, especially those who sit for long periods, experience trauma to the tailbone, or have poor posture.

Understanding the Coccyx (Tailbone)

The coccyx, commonly known as the tailbone , is the small, triangular bone at the very base of your spine. It consists of three to five fused vertebrae and plays a role in supporting your weight when you sit. Though it’s small, the coccyx can become irritated or injured, leading to localized pain and discomfort.

Common Causes of Pain in This Area

• Trauma or Injury
  A direct fall onto the tailbone, like slipping on ice or falling backward; can bruise, dislocate, or fracture the coccyx.
• Prolonged Sitting
  Sitting for extended periods, especially on hard or uncomfortable surfaces, can put pressure on the coccyx & cause inflammation.
• Poor Posture
  Slouching or sitting with incorrect posture can shift pressure onto the tailbone over time, leading to chronic pain.
• Childbirth
  During delivery, pressure & movement in the pelvic region can strain or injure the coccyx, particularly in difficult or prolonged labors.
• Repetitive Strain
  Activities like cycling or rowing may irritate the tailbone due to repetitive movements or prolonged sitting.
• Degenerative Conditions
  Arthritis or degeneration in the sacrococcygeal joint can contribute to tailbone pain.
• Less Common Causes
  Rarely, tumors, infections, or cysts in the area may lead to coccyx pain & should be evaluated by a doctor.

Symptoms of Coccyx Pain

• Aching or sharp pain at the bottom of the spine
• Increased pain when sitting or rising from a seated position
• Tenderness to the touch near the tailbone
• Pain during bowel movements or sexual activity (in some cases)

Treatment Options

Most cases of tailbone pain improve with conservative treatment. Here are common approaches…

• Use a cushion – A donut-shaped or wedge cushion reduces pressure when sitting.
• Apply ice or heat – Ice reduces inflammation, while heat relaxes muscles.
• Practice good posture – Sit upright with your back supported and feet flat on the floor.
• Physical therapy – Gentle exercises & stretches can help reduce pain and improve mobility.
• Medications – Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help.
• Injections – In some chronic cases, steroid or nerve block injections may provide relief.
• Surgery – Rarely, removal of the coccyx (coccygectomy) is considered for severe, unresponsive cases.

Tailbone pain, while often not serious, can significantly affect your quality of life. Understanding the possible causes and taking early steps to manage the discomfort can lead to effective relief.