Coccydynia is also called as “Tailbone pain”. It is pain in and around the small triangular bone at the bottom of your spinal column. This bone is referred to as the tailbone.
Causes Of Coccydynia
Trauma
Coccydynia often occurs due to direct trauma or injury to the coccyx, such as falls or impact during activities like cycling or horseback riding.
Childbirth
The coccyx can be injured or displaced during childbirth, leading to coccydynia, particularly in cases of prolonged or difficult deliveries.
Poor Posture
Prolonged sitting with poor posture, especially on hard surfaces, can strain or injure the coccyx, contributing to coccydynia.
Degenerative Changes
Degenerative conditions such as arthritis or age-related changes in the spine can affect the coccyx, leading to inflammation and pain.
Repetitive Strain
Activities or occupations that involve repetitive strain on the coccyx, such as rowing or cycling, may increase the risk of developing coccydynia.
Infections
In rare cases, infections in the area around the coccyx, such as pilonidal cysts, can lead to inflammation and pain in the coccyx region.
Symptoms of Coccydynia
Pain In The Tailbone Area
The primary symptom of coccydynia is localized pain and tenderness in the tailbone region, often worsened by sitting or pressure on the coccyx.
Discomfort With Sitting
Individuals with coccydynia typically experience increased pain or discomfort when sitting for prolonged periods, especially on hard surfaces.
Shooting Or Radiating Pain
In some cases, coccydynia pain may radiate to nearby areas such as the lower back, buttocks, or thighs, causing shooting or sharp pains.
Pain Management Interventions
Coccygeal nerve block
Corticosteroid injections and pain medications are administered directly into the coccyx area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain for several months.
Ganglion Impar block
Involves injecting medication near the ganglion impar nerve to relieve pelvic or perineal pain.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Uses heat to disrupt nerve signals and reduce pain, often applied to nerves causing chronic back or neck pain.
Treatment for Coccydynia
Conservative Measures
- Modified Sitting: Using a cushion or donut-shaped pillow while sitting to relieve pressure on the coccyx.
- Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to the tailbone area for short periods can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Pain Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may provide temporary relief from coccyx pain.
- Physical Therapy: Gentle stretching exercises and manual therapy techniques can help improve flexibility and reduce discomfort in the tailbone area, making them effective components of coccydynia pain management.
Do's for Coccydynia
- Use a Coccyx Cushion: Sit on a coccyx cushion or donut-shaped pillow to relieve pressure on the coccyx while sitting.
- Practice Good Posture: Sit and stand with proper posture to reduce strain on the coccyx and surrounding muscles.
- Apply Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to the affected area for short periods to help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Use Heat Therapy: Use heat therapy, such as warm baths or heating pads, to relax muscles and relieve discomfort.
- Practice Gentle Stretching: Engage in gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the muscles around the coccyx.
- Consider Tailbone Massages: Massage therapy focused on the muscles around the coccyx may help alleviate pain and improve circulation.
Don'ts for Coccydynia
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Minimize prolonged sitting to prevent excessive pressure on the coccyx. Take frequent breaks to stand and walk around.
- Avoid High-Impact Activities: Refrain from participating in high-impact activities or exercises that put strain on the coccyx, such as running or jumping.
- Don’t Delay Treatment: Seek prompt medical attention if you experience severe or worsening pain, as early intervention can help prevent further complications and promote faster recovery.
Dr. Anushka Patel - Tailbone Pain Treatment Doctor
There are several benefits to consulting with a pain management specialist. It is typical to concentrate on the affected area when a patient is in pain. Still, it’s also critical to understand the patient’s medical history, way of life, and eating and sleeping habits, in addition to the symptoms and underlying causes. Because of her training and experience, Dr. Anushka can determine the underlying source of the problem. With a correct diagnosis, she has a good prognosis for you to look forward to. Dr. Anushka is a highly sought-after pain management specialist because she places a high importance on the care provided during and after surgery or therapy.
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