The tailbone, or coccyx, is located at the very bottom of the spine, and serves as the attachment point for several muscles and ligaments. It plays a crucial role in supporting the body when sitting, and also helps to absorb shock during activities like walking and running.
Pregnant women are particularly susceptible to tailbone pain, as the additional weight and pressure put on the coccyx can cause strain and discomfort. However, tailbone pain can also affect anyone, and is often caused by repetitive strain, movement injury, trauma, or joint degeneration.
Coccydynia is a condition characterised by pain and discomfort in the lower back area. In Singapore where many of us are deskbound throughout the day, this is a common problem.
Causes of Tailbone Pain
One common cause of tailbone pain is repetitive strain injury, which can occur from activities that involve prolonged sitting, such as working at a desk or driving for long periods of time. This can lead to inflammation and irritation of the coccyx, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Trauma is another common cause of tailbone pain. This can include falls, sports injuries, or car accidents that result in a direct blow to the coccyx. In these cases, the pain may be immediate and severe, and may be accompanied by swelling and bruising.
Joint degeneration is another cause of tailbone pain. As we age, the joints in our body can become worn and damaged, leading to pain and stiffness. This can also occur in the coccyx, causing pain and discomfort when sitting or standing.
Symptoms of Tailbone Pain
Symptoms of tailbone pain include a dull ache or sharp pain in the lower back or buttocks, difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time, and pain or discomfort when sitting on a hard surface.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for tailbone pain include physical therapy, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and in some cases, surgery.
For pain relief at home, try using a coccyx cushion when sitting, and take frequent breaks to stand and stretch. Applying heat or cold to the affected area can also provide pain relief, as well as stretching and strengthening exercises. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight and to avoid activities that may aggravate the pain.
Orthopaedic surgery is typically only recommended for severe cases of coccydynia that do not respond to other treatments. Surgical options may include removal of the coccyx or fusion of the coccyx to the sacrum.
Get Rid of Coccyx Pain With Orthopaedic Specialist in Singapore
If you are suffering from tailbone pain, our orthopaedic specialists at OrthofootMD can help. With their expertise and the clinic’s state-of-the-art facilities in Singapore, we can help you find the best treatment options that suit your needs and lifestyle.
Thinking “why does my tailbone hurt?” Book an appointment with our orthopaedic surgeon to find out what treatment options we have at our centre. From consultation to post operation recovery, you will be in safe and reliable hands.
