Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain)

Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain)

Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain), also known ascoccygodynia, coccalgiaorcoccygeal neuralgia, is used to describe symptoms of tailbone, lower back and pelvis pain. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment of Coccydynia aims to:

Mobilise Joints

About the condition

What is Coccydynia?

Thecoccyx (or tailbone) is a small, triangular bone at the bottom of the spinal column underneath the sacrum, held together by ligaments, muscle and tendons. This bone, as well as the ischial tuberosities (sitting bones) in the pelvis, are responsible for bearing weight while seated. Prolonged pressure can result in mild to severe pain.

Symptoms

Relieve Symptoms

Encourage Recovery

Causes

What are the causes of Coccydynia?

Coccydynia is a relatively common acute condition and is rarely permanent (chronic). Women are more likely to have the condition, as well as those who are obese. It is typically diagnosed in adolescence or adulthood.

Some factors which influence diagnosis include:

  • Falls– landing on the tailbone (can cause fractures)
  • Pregnancy/childbirth– hormonal changes in the 3rd trimester
  • Strenuous activity/repetitive strain– e.g. cycling, rowing, etc.
  • Poor posture– sustained pressure to the tailbone
  • Seating– sitting on hard narrow surfaces for long periods of time – eg. bicycle seat
  • Weight gain– also, sedentary lifestyles
  • Underweight– not enough tissue/cushion to the tailbone
  • Cancer– rarely; tailbone pain can be a symptom of cancer
Symptoms

What are the symptoms?

  • Varying levels of pain – dull/achy/burning/shooting/etc.At the tailbone (or sacrum)Referred pain which radiates to the lower back and pelvis
  • At the tailbone (or sacrum)
  • Referred pain which radiates to the lower back and pelvis
  • Worsened symptoms when changing from sit-stand/stand-sit, or being seated for prolonged periods etc.
  • Pain during bowel movements/menstruation
  • Pain during sexual activity
Treatment

Treatment for Coccydynia

If you think you might have symptoms or conditions related to tailbone pain, it is important to see a profession for diagnosis and treatment/management options.

Physiotherapy is aimed at managing symptoms and pain through an exercise program. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we can tailor a unique treatment plan to manage symptoms through:

If the pain is severe, strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise for you to use lumbar or pelvic support.

  • Stretching, strengthening and/or conditioning exercises
  • Restoring range of movement
  • Postural improvement
  • Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
  • Trigger point therapy
  • Dry needling
  • Taping
  • A unique home exercise program – pelvic floor exercises and more
  • Graded Exposure to load program
  • Additional lifestyle recommendations

Need Help?

Are you in pain caused by coccydynia? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment. Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.