Understanding Coccyx and Tailbone Pain, Causes, and Treatment

The spine is made up of 33 individual bones. More specifically, they’re divided into four main regions—the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacrum spine.

At the bottom of the spine is the coccyx aka tailbone. While it’s considered vestigial (aka no longer necessary), it does have a few important functions.

That is, it serves as the insertion site for tendons, ligaments, and muscles. In addition to that, it supports you while you’re sitting.

Like the rest of the body, however, it can be affected by various conditions.

What causes coccyx and tailbone pain? How can you treat it? Want to know? If so, be sure to read the rest of the post!

Where is the Coccyx/Tailbone?

The tailbone is made up of four small bones that are fused together at the bottom of the spine. Triangular in shape, it is located just below the sacrum.

In fact, it connects with the bony structure through the sacrococcygeal joint. When you move, there is also a slight movement between the sacrum and the coccyx.

What Causes Pain in Your Coccyx?

A number of things can cause coccyx pain. For example, the tailbone can start hurting if you sit on a hard chair or bench for a long period of time.

Injuries such as falls can also cause bruising. In some cases, it can even lead to fractures.

While anyone can experience tailbone problems, those who are overweight are more prone to issues. For one thing, more weight puts extra stress on the coccyx. 

How to Treat Coccyx Pain

Assuming that there’s no fracture, the pain should go away on its own within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, there are over-the-counter medications that you can take to relieve the pain.

Aside from that, you can apply heat or ice, both of which should help with the discomfort. The way you sit matters as well—that is, you want to make sure that your feet are flat on the ground and that your back is pressed against the chair.

There are also donut-shaped pillows that you can get that’ll help relieve pressure from the tailbone area.

Chiropractic Treatment for Tailbone/Coccyx Pain

Depending on the injury, the tailbone can move out of alignment. When this happens, it can irritate the tissues and nerves around the area, which can be quite painful.

That’s where chiropractors come in. They’re able to fix the underlying problem by correcting the misalignment.

In addition to that, they might suggest massage therapy. Not only will that help reduce inflammation but it’ll also promote muscle recovery.

Understanding Coccyx and Tailbone Pain

Now you know all about how to treat coccyx and tailbone pain. Remember, you don’t always have to go for medications—there are many other options!

Are you in the Mill Creek, WA area? Looking for a chiropractic clinic? Feel free to reach out—we’d be happy to help!