The tailbone, or coccyx, is the lowest part of the spine. Tailbone pain is usually felt at the top of the buttocks. The pain can be sharp or dull and is most noticeable when sitting or squatting.
Several conditions can cause tailbone pain. Some are mild and can heal on their own, while others require more serious medical attention.
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Causes of Tailbone Pain
The tailbone primarily functions to support the body, especially when sitting. It also serves as an attachment point for ligaments, tendons, and muscles that connect different parts of the body.
As a result, tailbone pain, also known as coccydynia, can interfere with daily activities. Generally, the most common causes of tailbone pain include injury or prolonged sitting. However, some medical conditions can also lead to coccydynia.
Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Injury
Tailbone injuries can cause pain, often resulting from falls or accidents. A hard fall can lead to tailbone dislocation or fractures, causing severe discomfort.
2. Repetitive Strain and Pressure
Frequent pressure and strain on the buttocks area can lead to tailbone pain. This condition is most common in cyclists or rowers, as their forward and backward motions repeatedly stretch the tailbone.
3. Pregnancy or Childbirth
Pregnancy and childbirth can also lead to tailbone pain. In the third trimester, the body releases hormones that loosen the tailbone and sacrum (part of the pelvis) to prepare for delivery. However, not all pregnant women experience this pain.
4. Obesity
Excessive body weight puts added pressure on the spine, including the tailbone. This excessive pressure can lead to pain. Additionally, carrying or lifting heavy loads can also cause tailbone pain.
5. Being Underweight
Just as obesity can contribute to tailbone pain, being underweight can also be a factor. People with very low body fat have less cushioning in the buttocks. Without sufficient fat padding, the tailbone directly contacts muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to inflammation and pain.
6. Prolonged Sitting
Sitting for long periods can put excessive pressure on the tailbone, especially when sitting on hard and flat surfaces. Poor sitting posture, such as slouching or sinking into a chair while working, can also contribute to tailbone pain.
7. Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids cause inflammation in the tissues that protect the anal opening, which can also pull on the muscles around the tailbone and cause discomfort.
8. Tumors or Cancer
In rare cases, tumors or cancer can cause tailbone pain. This typically happens when cancer cells spread to the coccyx. Some cancers that may cause tailbone pain include:
- Spinal tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Colon cancer
- Chordoma (a rare type of bone cancer)
How to Treat Tailbone Pain
Tailbone pain is often mild and resolves on its own without special treatment. However, depending on the severity and cause, various treatments are available.
If the pain is due to an injury, such as a fall or accident, avoid massaging or manipulating the area without consulting a doctor. Improper handling can worsen the condition.
Here are some ways to relieve tailbone pain:
- Improve your sitting posture
- Use a donut-shaped cushion to reduce pressure on the tailbone
- Apply hot or cold compresses to alleviate pain
- Take a warm bath to relax the muscles and reduce discomfort
- Stretch the hip and buttock muscles to ease tension
- Perform Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles
- Lie on your side to relieve pressure on the tailbone
- Increase fiber intake to prevent constipation if pain is due to hemorrhoids
In rare cases, surgery may be required to remove part or all of the tailbone. However, surgery is only recommended if other treatments fail. Doctors typically prioritize corticosteroid injections and physical therapy to manage tailbone pain.
If your tailbone pain persists for more than two weeks and worsens when using the restroom, having intercourse, menstruating, bending, or sitting, consult a doctor immediately.
For professional diagnosis and treatment, consult an orthopedic specialist at Mandaya Orthopedic & Movement Centre. Our experts can help determine the most suitable treatment for your condition.
Contact us through WhatsApp, book an appointment, or download the Care Dokter app on Google Play and the App Store to schedule a consultation.
