Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain) in Sinnamon Park

What is Coccydynia?

Thecoccyx (or tailbone) is a small, triangular bone at the bottom of the spinal column underneath the sacrum, held together by ligaments, muscle and tendons. This bone, as well as the ischial tuberosities (sitting bones) in the pelvis, are responsible for bearing weight while seated. Prolonged pressure can result in mild to severe pain.

What are the causes of Coccydynia?

Coccydynia is a relatively common acute condition and is rarely permanent (chronic). Women are more likely to have the condition, as well as those who are obese. It is typically diagnosed in adolescence or adulthood.

Some factors which influence diagnosis include:

• Falls– landing on the tailbone (can cause fractures)
• Pregnancy/childbirth– hormonal changes in the 3rd trimester
• Strenuous activity/repetitive strain– e.g. cycling, rowing, etc.
• Poor posture– sustained pressure to the tailbone
• Seating– sitting on hard narrow surfaces for long periods of time – eg. bicycle seat
• Weight gain– also, sedentary lifestyles
• Underweight– not enough tissue/cushion to the tailbone
• Cancer– rarely; tailbone pain can be a symptom of cancer

Treatment for Coccydynia

If you think you might have symptoms or conditions related to tailbone pain, it is important to see a profession for diagnosis and treatment/management options.

Physiotherapy is aimed at managing symptoms and pain through an exercise program. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we can tailor a unique treatment plan to manage symptoms through:

If the pain is severe, strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise for you to use lumbar or pelvic support.

• Stretching, strengthening and/or conditioning exercises
• Restoring range of movement
• Postural improvement
• Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
• Trigger point therapy
• Dry needling
• Taping
• A unique home exercise program – pelvic floor exercises and more
• Graded Exposure to load program
• Additional lifestyle recommendations