Coccyx pain refers to pain in the coccyx, also known as the tailbone. The coccyx is a small bone at the bottom of the spine, made up of three to five segments that are fused together. Coccyx pain can be caused by an injury or a medical condition.
In this article, we will discuss the symptoms and remedies for coccyx pain.
Symptoms of Coccyx Pain
The symptoms of coccyx pain can vary depending on the severity and cause of the pain. The most common symptoms of coccyx pain are:.
- Pain and tenderness in the area around the tailbone
- Pain that gets worse when sitting or when you move from sitting to standing
- Pain during bowel movements
- Pain during sexual intercourse or cycling
- A dull ache in the lower back
Causes of Coccyx Pain
There are several causes of coccyx pain. These include:.
- Fracture of the coccyx
- Injury to the coccyx
- Repetitive strain injury
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Tumors or infections in the coccyx area
- Arthritis
- Sciatica
Remedies for Coccyx Pain
There are several remedies for coccyx pain. These include:.
1. Rest and Ice
Resting and applying ice to the area can help reduce pain and inflammation. This is especially useful for acute injuries that cause coccyx pain. Make sure to rest and ice for no more than 20 minutes at a time, and take breaks in between.
2. Warm Baths and Hot Packs
Warm baths and hot packs can help relieve muscle tension and soothe coccyx pain. Soaking in a warm bath for 20 minutes can help relax your muscles and reduce pain. Alternatively, you can use a hot pack or heating pad to target the affected area.
Make sure not to use hot packs or heating pads for more than 20 minutes at a time, and take breaks in between.
3. Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the recommended dosage and do not exceed the prescribed amount.
4. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help relieve coccyx pain by strengthening the muscles surrounding the tailbone. A physical therapist can also assist you with stretches and exercises that can help reduce pain and stiffness.
5. Cushions and Pillows
Cushions and pillows can help reduce pressure on the coccyx area when sitting. Using a specially designed coccyx cushion can help alleviate coccyx pain when sitting for long periods of time.
You can also use a donut-shaped pillow to take pressure off the tailbone when sitting. Make sure to take breaks from sitting and move around periodically.
6. Surgery
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve coccyx pain. This is usually only recommended if conservative treatments have not been effective. Surgery may involve removing the coccyx or reshaping it to relieve pressure on surrounding tissues.
Preventing Coccyx Pain
There are several ways to prevent coccyx pain. These include:.