The document discusses coccygodynia, also known as tailbone pain. It defines coccygodynia as pain around the coccyx bone, which is at the bottom of the spine. Common causes include injury, childbirth, prolonged sitting, and repetitive straining. Symptoms include intense, deep pain in the tailbone area that can radiate to the lower genitals and legs. The pain is aggravated by sitting, standing, intercourse, lifting, and bending. Treatment options include ice, cushions, acupuncture, physiotherapy, medications, steroid injections, manipulation, and pelvic floor exercises.

1. Coccygodynia AKA Tailbone Pain
 Posted On 8 Oct 2016
 in Latest News
Coccygodynia AKA Tailbone Pain
Delphine Clements shares her knowledge of this painful problem.
What Is It?
Coccygodynia, is pain around the region of the coccyx (the very end of the spine)
About the Coccyx
The coccyx is a triangular bone that consist of 3 to 5 vertebrae. The coccyx is attached to the
bottom of the spine (sacrum) by ligaments and muscles. The coccyx is a site of connection
for the pelvic floor and also contribute voluntary bowel control.
What Causes Coccygodynia?
Coccygodynia is more common in female, particularly women during pregnancy as the fetus
increases pressure within the pelvis.
Coccygodynia can occur for the following reasons:
 accidental injury
 growth spurs
 after childbirth
 a fall directly on the coccyx
 persistent pressure from activities (cycling, horse riding, riding)
 sitting that put direct stress on the coccyx
 repetitive straining to pass stools
 pilonidal cyst
What are the Symptoms?

2. The pain can be an intense pain that ranges from a deep ache or pressure sensitivity to the
sensation of sitting on a knife. Pain can be radiate towards the lower genitals, as well as to the
legs.
Coccygodynia is aggravated by:
 prolonged sitting/standing
 difficulty passing stools
 sexual intercourse
 rising from a seated position
 lifting
 bending
Depression, exhaustion and even plantar fasciitis are other associated symptoms that may
arise with coccygodynia and consequently further decrease quality of life.
How Can Coccygodynia be Treated?
Coccydynia can be treat by conservative therapies (icepacks, cushions), acupuncture,
physiotherapist, oral medication, steroids injections to the coccyx, myofascial release,
internal and external manipulation, pelvic floor exercises or simply avoiding activities which
exacerbate the symptoms.