Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain), also known as coccygodynia, coccalgia or coccygeal neuralgia, is used to describe symptoms of tailbone, lower back and pelvis pain.
Coccydynia (Tailbone Pain)
Treatment
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment of Coccydynia aims to:
What is Coccydynia?
The coccyx (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
What are the symptoms?
- Varying levels of pain – dull/achy/burning/shooting/etc.
- At the tailbone (or sacrum)
- Referred pain which radiates to the lower back and pelvis
- Worsened symptoms when changing from sit-stand/stand-sit, or being seated for prolonged periods etc.
- Pain during bowel movements/menstruation
- Pain during sexual activity
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:
- 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
If the pain is severe, strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise for you to use lumbar or pelvic support.
How to book an appointment?
If you think you have coccydynia, or are looking for a physiotherapist near me, the team at Vitalis Physiotherapy can assess your condition to tailor a unique rehabilitation plan to aid in your pain relief and recovery.
All you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.
You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.
Need Help?
Are you in pain caused by coccydynia? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment.
Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
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