The Coccyx is a vital internal part of the body, which is also known as the tailbone. It serves different functions, including supporting the pelvis. It’s a small, triangular bone situated below the sacrum. It’s pretty helpful & provides support in sitting. The coccyx also plays a significant role in bearing weight. In most cases, injuries & fractures to the tailbone may cause a Coccydynia problem. In this section, we will throw light on the causes of tailbone pain (Coccydynia).
People may experience Coccydynia if the Coccyx or surrounding tissue gets damaged. Because of this, they feel discomfort & pain in the lower part of the spine, specifically at the base portion. If you don’t follow the appropriate sitting position or lean backwards, then there is a possibility of having intense pressure on the Coccyx. In cases of injuries, the pelvic floor muscles are affected, which may result in difficulty running, walking, or moving the legs.
If you have been experiencing this problem for an extended period of time, or only a few days have passed, then it’s advisable to visit your doctor for tailbone pain treatment. Physiotherapy, stretching exercises, and pain medication are considered adequate for relieving pain. We are the premier physiotherapy clinic in Gurgaon, offering personalised services for tailbone pain at an affordable rate. Our team of specialists aspires to provide you with ankylosing spondylitis treatment services.
Causes of Tailbone Pain
In the above section, we have learned a little bit about tailbone pain, but here, let’s have a quick glimpse of the causes of tailbone pain (Coccydynia).
Injury/Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Injury to the Coccyx may cause Coccydynia. You may suffer from the hard impact in your tailbone area or the bottom of your spine. Accidental hitting during contact sports or falling backwards may lead to this problem. In addition, due to severe injuries, there is a possibility of having a dislocation or fracture of the Coccyx.
Repetitive strain injuries can occur when participating in cycling or other sports that involve continuous stretching at the base of your spine. Or you are more likely to lean forward. If frequent movement occurs, there is a chance of muscle and ligament stretching.
Straining may damage the muscles & ligaments, which may result in pain and discomfort.
Poor posture
Suppose you are habituated to sitting in poor posture while working or driving. This inappropriate posture will put too much pressure on the lower part of the spine, including the coccyx. Poor posture will also cause pain and inflammation.
Overweight & Underweight Problem
In the list of causes of tailbone pain, being overweight and underweight are the most significant problems. It’s interesting to note that too much pressure on the Coccyx may also cause coccydynia. And this mainly happens whenever you sit, and you are overweight. If you are slim, then your buttocks fat is unable to prevent the rubbing of the coccyx and surrounding tissues.
Infections
Infection can be a significant reason for coccydynia, which often occurs at the base of the spine. Medical conditions such as a pilonidal abscess can cause pus in the cleft of the buttocks.
Ageing
It’s also worth mentioning that with the passage of time, cartilage can wear down. These cartilages are the best fit for holding the Coccyx. There is a chance that the bones of the Coccyx may get tightly fused. It’s one of the most common causes of tailbone pain. You should consult a doctor for more effective treatment.
Tailbone Pain Treatment
Here in this segment, we will discuss a little bit about tailbone pain treatment.
Physical Therapy to Treat Tailbone Pain
If you are experiencing tailbone pain, it is recommended that you visit your doctor immediately. He/She will examine you & suggest your best exercises to strengthen the muscles. Stomach muscles and pelvic floor are the best ones. Moreover, a few techniques, such as coccygeal manipulation, are pretty beneficial.
Anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs)
If you are having too much pain and discomfort, over-the-counter painkillers can be beneficial. A special type of painkiller that is also known as an NSAID, is pretty much effective in providing relief from the pain & swelling around the Coccyx. These medications should be taken only after a doctor’s prescription, as there may be a risk of developing stomach ulcers or some allergic reaction. If all this occurs, then paracetamol can be a good choice; ibuprofen gel may also be effective.
Exercises for Tailbone Pain
Various exercises & stretches help relieve pressure from the Coccyx, which are particularly suitable for tailbone pain.
Surgery to Treat Tailbone Pain
If the severity is greater, then the treatment mentioned above may not be effective. In such a situation, your doctor may recommend surgery. Part or all of the Coccyx may be removed during the surgery. In general terms, this procedure is known as coccygectomy. Please consult with your doctor to determine whether surgery is the best course of action, as it involves some risk. There are chances of having infections.
Anodyne Spine Clinic – Tailbone Pain Treatment in South Delhi
Anodyne Spine Clinic is an advanced Physiotherapy clinic in the Delhi/NCR region. To treat the patients, we use world-class treatment approaches. We are also recognised for our expertise in tailbone pain treatment. We are recognised for specialisation in spinal-related problems, sports injuries, myofascial Release, chiropractic care, and soft tissue mobilisation.
If you are experiencing coccydynia, back pain, leg, knee, or neck pain, you may want to consult with our physiotherapist. Call us now! Book appointments with our experienced physiotherapists and clinics.