What is the main function of the coccyx?
Function of the Coccyx Weight is distributed between the bottom portions of the two hip bones (or ischium) and the tailbone, providing balance and stability when a person is seated. The tailbone is the connecting point for many pelvic floor muscles.
What causes pain in coccyx bone?
Tailbone pain — pain that occurs in or around the bony structure at the bottom of the spine (coccyx) — can be caused by trauma to the coccyx during a fall, prolonged sitting on a hard or narrow surface, degenerative joint changes, or vaginal childbirth.
How can I relieve coccyx pain?
A person can take regular breaks from sitting or try sitting on a U-shaped or wedge-shaped cushion instead. These cushions allow a person to sit comfortably by taking pressure off the tailbone. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help a person manage the pain symptoms.
Does a broken tailbone heal on its own?
A broken or bruised coccyx will usually heal on its own. Physical therapy, exercises, and a special cushion can all help ease the pain and speed recovery. See your doctor if pain is severe, or if you have trouble with bowel movements or urination. Surgery is needed in fewer than 10 percent of cases.
When should I go to the doctor for tailbone pain?
You should call your doctor immediately if you have pain in the tailbone and any of the following other symptoms: A sudden increase in swelling or pain. Constipation that lasts a long time. Sudden numbness, weakness, or tingling in either or both legs.
Can you damage your coccyx?
You can injure your coccyx if you suffer a hard impact to the base of your spine. For example, from an accidental kick during contact sports. Falling backwards is another common cause of injury to the coccyx. In most cases where the coccyx is injured, it will only be badly bruised.
How long does a coccyx take to heal?
If you have a fracture, healing can take between 8 to 12 weeks. If your tailbone injury is a bruise, healing takes about 4 weeks.
What does a tailbone chordoma feel like?
Symptoms of chordoma can be very different depending on where in your spine the chordoma starts. When chordoma starts at the base of the skull you may have headaches or double vision. Chordoma near the tailbone can cause pain down your legs and trouble controlling your bladder or bowels.
How can you tell if your coccyx is fractured?
The symptoms of a broken tailbone include:
- an almost constant dull pain in the very low back, just above the buttocks.
- pain that worsens when sitting and when standing up from a sitting position.
- swelling around the tailbone.
- pain that intensifies during a bowel movement.
- pain that intensifies during sexual intercourse.