Coccydynia

Coccydynia is a medical term that is used to describe acute or chronic pain in or around the coccyx, which is the final spinal segment in the human spine. These three to five vertebrae in the coccyx are fused together and comprise the area of the body that is commonly referred to as the tailbone. Coccydynia can be caused a number of ways, ranging from a traumatic injury to the presence of a bone spur or cyst, or even a coccyx dislocation.

Coccyx Pain and Treatments

Also known as coccyx pain, coccydynia can cause significant discomfort, particularly when the patient is sitting for prolonged periods of time. The first step to overcoming this sharp pain is to visit your doctor for a physical examination. Significant coccyx pain is most commonly attributed to an injury or the misalignment of the coccyx, which more often than not requires medical attention to sufficiently treat for long-term relief. Coccydynia is also quite common in women shortly after childbirth.

The good news with coccydynia is that nonsurgical, conservative treatments are usually effective in providing lasting relief. Some of the most popular and effective coccydynia treatments include:

• Manual treatment and vertebral manipulation
• Deep tissue massage
• The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Corticosteroid injections
• Stretching exercises

Other Options

In the event that these treatments prove ineffective, surgery – including the complete removal of the coccyx – may be suggested. However, most surgical procedures are rarely required and only considered when the patient continues to experience severe or debilitating pain. If you suffer from coccydynia and have been unable to sufficiently manage your symptoms on your own, visit your doctor for a complete examination and learn about the various treatments available to you.