Coccydynia (Coccyx Pain)

Overview

Coccydynia, often referred to as coccyx pain, is a disorder characterized by misalignment of the coccyx or coccyx, which is located at the base of the spine. This pain may be sharp, aching, or throbbing, and may worsen with sitting, standing, or walking. Although it is not a life-threatening condition, it can interfere with a person's daily activities and quality of life. Dr.Irfan Malik at Mspine helps to overcome this condition.

Symptoms of Coccydynia

The basic symptom of coccydynia is pain in the tailbone area, which can be described as:

• Localized pain: discomfort directly in the coccyx, especially when sitting.
• Radiating pain: pain that radiates to the lower back, buttocks, or thighs.
• Soreness: Increased tenderness in the coccyx area when touched or pressed.
• Pain on movement: discomfort when sitting, standing, or going from sitting to standing.

The intensity of the pain can range from mild to severe and can be continuous or intermittent.

When to See a Consultant

It is advisable to see a doctor if:

• The pain is severe or does not improve with home help. You experience long-term discomfort that lasts for several weeks.
• There are accompanying symptoms such as swelling, bruising, or fever.
• The pain begins after a fall or an injury to the tail.
• Along with pain, you notice changes in bowel or bladder function.

Visiting a consultant can help determine the underlying cause and suitable treatment.

Causes of Coccydynia

Coccydynia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Injury: Landing on a hard surface or serious injury to the coccyx can cause swelling and pain.
• Sitting for long periods: Sitting for long periods, especially on hard surfaces, can put a strain on your neck and the surrounding muscles.
• Childbirth: Women may experience colic pain after giving birth due to environmental pressure during labor.
• Infections or injuries: Although rare, infections or injuries in the spine can be painful.
• Osteoarthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis can lead to wear and tear on the bones in the joint.

Diagnosing Coccydynia

To diagnose coccydynia, the clinician begins with a physical examination that focuses on the tailbone area. They may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and past injuries. Other assessment tools may include:

• X-rays: These can help identify fractures or structural abnormalities in the coccyx.
• MRI or CT scans: These imaging tests provide a more detailed picture of the soft tissues and help rule out other causes of similar symptoms.
• Physical exam: Your doctor may check for tenderness or discomfort in your tailbone.

Treatment Options for Coccydynia

Treatment for coccydynia often begins with conservative measures. Common treatment options include:

• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help treat pain and inflammation.
• Ice and heat therapy: Applying ice packs can reduce swelling and numbing pain. After a few days, a temperature change can help relax the muscles around your tailbone.
• Pillow: Using a pillow or donut-shaped pillow while sitting can reduce pressure on your coccyx, providing relief.
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor and improve posture, which can help relieve pain.
• Medication: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatment is ineffective, a surgical option may be considered. Surgical removal of the tailbone (coccygectomy) is usually a last resort.