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Coccydynia - Tailbone pain

Updated: Nov 11, 2022




What is Coccydynia?


Coccydynia refers to any type of persistent tailbone pain. The coccyx is a small triangular bone at the bottom of the spinal column below the sacrum.


Coccyx can get bruised and sometimes fractured causing a lot of pain. The coccyx connects with the sacrum through the sacro-coccygeal joint, and there is normally very limited movement between the coccyx and sacrum.




What is the function of coccyx?


Coccyx or tailbone it does have some function in the pelvis. When a person is seated the weight is distributed between the hip bones and coccyx providing balance and stability.


The tailbone is also the connecting point of many pelvic floor muscles. These muscles absorb outside pressure in a way that protects your organs and your spine, at the same time these muscles help you control your bowel and bladder function.




Causes of coccydynia


Common causes of tailbone pain include:

  • Childbirth and pregnancy

  • Landing on your coccyx after a fall

  • Prolong compression of coccyx (sitting for long time while driving or cycling)

  • Being overweight or underweight

  • Being hyper-flexible

  • Poor posture

  • Hemorrhoids

  • Chordoma (cancerous tumour that develops in the spine)




Physiotherapy assessment in the Coccyx area.



What are the symptoms of Coccydynia?


The main symptom of coccydynia is intense pain felt in the tailbone. Pain is usually described as an aching soreness and can range from mild to severe. Pain is increased with sitting or from a sitting to standing position or vice versa.


Some patients experience intense pain during sexual intercourse or defecation due to the proximity of the coccyx to then anus. Other symptoms could be swelling and weakness.




What should i do if I have tailbone pain?


Self care can be done without the assistance of medical professional assistance:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs

  • Apply heat: That might help to release muscle tension around this area

  • Activity modification: Using a standing desk or avoiding prolong sitting it might be helpful, also sitting on a soft surface is recommended.

  • Dietary changes: If tailbone is caused or worsen with bowel movements or constipation, increased fibres and water is recommended.




Treatment for Coccydynia


At Physio Pattern Manchester we will do a thorough assessment in order to find the real cause of your tailbone pain (coccydynia). A treatment plan will be developed to ensure a speedy recovery with long term results and no recurrence. An Individualised exercise program will be prescribed to you as well.


Physio Pattern Manchester is going to use some of the modalities below as assessment and treatment tools (click on the links below for more information).






If you would like more information of how Physio Pattern Manchester can help with this condition, or to book an assessment please call








 

Leading Physiotherapy Provider in Manchester. Coccydynia / tailbone treatment in Manchester, Physiotherapy Treatment in Manchester city centre, Northern Quarter, Ancoats.Physio Manchester, Manchester Physio, Physio Manchester City Centre, Physiotherapy clinic in Manchester.





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