COCCYX

Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain)

Direct trauma to the tailbone is the most common cause of coccydynia, and usually leads to inflammation surrounding the coccyx, which contributes to pain and discomfort. There are many cases reported in which pain begins with no identifiable origin (called idiopathic coccydynia). Symptoms of coccydynia The main symptom is pain and tenderness in the area just above the buttocks. The pain may: be dull and achy most of the time, with occasional sharp pains be worse when sitting down, moving from sitting to standing, standing for long periods, having sex and going for a poo make it very difficult to sleep and carry out everyday activities, such as driving or bending over Some people also have back pain, shooting leg pains (sciatica) and painful buttocks and hips. What Causes Coccydynia? The coccyx can be damaged in a number of ways, although in many cases it’s not possible to identify a cause. The main causes include: Sitting for extended periods The overstretching of muscles and ligaments during childbirth Trauma to the base of your spine such as a hard fall Poor posture while at work or while driving long distances Being overweight or underweight