Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, is a condition that affects the lowest portion of the spine, the coccyx. It’s a surprisingly common problem but one that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. This article will explore the causes of tailbone pain, from physical injuries to certain lifestyle-related factors, as well as treatment options and preventive measures.
Causes of Tailbone Pain
Tailbone pain can be the result of a number of different causes, both physical and lifestyle-related.
Physical Causes
One of the most common causes of tailbone pain is trauma to the lower spine. A direct blow to the coccyx, such as from a sports or car accident, or a fall onto a hard surface can easily cause swelling and bruising of the tailbone, leading to pain. In addition, any pressure placed on the tailbone for extended periods of time, such as sitting for long periods or wearing a heavy backpack, can also cause tailbone pain.
Pregnancy can also be a cause of tailbone pain. The shift in weight and posture that comes along with carrying a baby increases the chances of straining the coccyx, leading to pain.
Lifestyle Causes
Certain lifestyle choices can also increase the chances of developing tailbone pain. Being overweight or obese puts extra weight and strain on the lower back and makes it more likely that the tailbone will become injured. Sitting for long periods of time – especially on hard or uncomfortable surfaces – is another potential cause of tailbone pain as it forces the tailbone into an unnatural position for an extended period of time.
Medical Causes
In some cases, tailbone pain can be an indication of an underlying medical condition. Degenerative disc diseases, certain spinal tumors, and some cases of osteoporosis can all cause tailbone pain, as can some cases of inflammatory arthritis.
Treatment Options
Fortunately, there are a number of options available to treat tailbone pain, ranging from lifestyle adjustments to medication and physical therapy.
Heat and Cold Therapy
A common way to manage tailbone pain is by applying heat or cold to the affected area. Heat increases circulation to the area and can help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation. Cold, on the other hand, numbs the area and can reduce swelling. Both can be beneficial treatments for tailbone pain, though most doctors prefer cold therapy to heat.
Medication
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Additionally, corticosteroid injections or topical gels containing corticosteroid medication can be used to reduce inflammation and provide more targeted pain relief.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can provide exercises and stretches specifically tailored to tailbone pain that can help strengthen the lower back and reduce pain. These exercises and stretches can also help improve posture and mobility, reduce the risk of further injury, and decrease pain long-term.
Surgery
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a cyst or tumor, repair damage, or fuse the coccyx with the surrounding bones. Surgery should only be considered after all other treatments have failed.
Preventive Measures
As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Taking measures to prevent tailbone pain can help avoid it in the first place.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
As mentioned earlier, being overweight or obese puts extra strain on the lower back and makes it more likely that the tailbone will be injured. Maintaining a healthy weight will help reduce the chances of tailbone pain.
Use a Cushioned Seat
Sitting for long periods of time – especially on a hard surface – can put extra strain on the tailbone, leading to pain and discomfort. A cushioned seat, such as a gel or foam cushion, can help reduce pressure on the tailbone and make sitting for long periods more comfortable.
Wear Low-Heeled Shoes
High heels can be particularly damaging to the lower back as they put extra strain on the tailbone as well as the muscles and ligaments in the area. Wearing low-heeled shoes, such as flats or loafers, can help reduce the strain on the tailbone and lower the risk of pain and injury.
People Also Ask
What causes tailbone pain?
Tailbone pain can be caused by physical trauma, improper posture when sitting or standing, pregnancy, and some medical conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, certain types of tumors, osteoporosis, or inflammatory arthritis.
Is tailbone pain common?
Yes, tailbone pain is surprisingly common, though it can be hard to diagnose. According to studies, tailbone pain affects up to 16% of people.
Can exercise help with tailbone pain?
Yes, physical activity can help strengthen the muscles around the tailbone, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility, thus reducing the risk of pain.
What is the best treatment for tailbone pain?
The best treatment for tailbone pain will depend on its cause. Many people find relief from rest, heat and cold therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage.
How long does tailbone pain last?
Tailbone pain can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, though in some cases it may last longer. Taking preventive measures and seeing a doctor when necessary is the best way to ensure that tailbone pain is kept to a minimum.
Final Words
Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, can be caused by a variety of factors, both physical and lifestyle-related. Thankfully, there are many treatments available that can effectively treat and manage the symptoms of tailbone pain, as well as preventive measures that can help reduce the chances of it occurring in the first place.