Tailbone Injury Overview The coccyx, or tailbone, is the triangular bony structure located at the bottom of the vertebral column. It is composed of three to five bony segments held in place by joints and ligaments. A coccyx or tailbone injury results in pain and discomfort in the tailbone area (the condition is called coccydynia). These injuries may result in a bruise, dislocation, or break (fracture) of the coccyx. Although they may be slow to heal, the majority of coccyx injuries can be managed with conservative treatment. The majority of coccyx injuries occur in women because the female pelvis is broader, and the coccyx is more exposed. Tailbone Injury Causes Most coccyx injuries are caused by direct trauma to the tailbone area. * A fall onto the tailbone in the seated position, usually against a hard surface, is the most common cause of coccyx injuries. * A direct blow to the tailbone, such as those that occur during contact sports, can injure the coccyx. * The coccyx can be injured or fractured during childbirth. * Repetitive straining or friction against the coccyx (as happens in bicycling or rowing) can injure the coccyx. * Sometimes, the cause of coccyx injuries is unknown. * Less common causes of coccyx discomfort include bone spurs, compression of nerve roots or injuries to other parts of the spine, local infections, and tumors. Tailbone Injury Symptoms * Severe localized pain and tenderness may be felt in the tailbone area. * If the injury is traumatic, a bruise may be visible in this area. * The pain is generally worse when sitting for prolonged periods of time, or with direct pressure to the tailbone area. * Bowel movements and straining are often painful. * Some women may experience pain during sexual intercourse. When to Seek Medical Care If a patient has the signs and symptoms of a coccyx injury or unexplained discomfort in the coccyx area, contact the doctor. It may be necessary for the doctor to decide if the injury is traumatic or if the pain is caused by other, more serious problems. Injuries to the region of the coccyx rarely require a visit to the emergency department. However, if the patient is unable to reach his or her physician, have no physician, or are otherwise concerned about his or her symptoms, it is wise to visit your nearest hospital's emergency department. Tailbone Injury Treatment Self-Care at Home Coccyx injuries are often extremely painful, so home care is aimed at controlling pain and avoiding further irritation to the coccyx. * Avoid sitting down for long periods of time. When seated, sit on hard surfaces and alternate sitting on each side of the buttocks. Also, lean forward and direct your weight away from the tailbone. * For traumatic injuries, apply ice to the tailbone area for 15-20 minutes, four times a day, for the first few days after the injury. * Use ibuprofen (Advil), or a similar pain medicine, as directed on the label for pain control. * You can purchase a "doughnut" cushion or pillow to sit on. This cushion has a hole in the middle of it to prevent the tailbone from contacting the flat surface. Medical Treatment In addition to home care, a physician may be able to provide further relief of pain with other medical and, rarely, surgical interventions. * Stronger pain medications may be prescribed at the discretion of your physician. * Stool softeners may be prescribed to prevent constipation. * Injections of local anesthetics or corticosteroids into the coccyx area are sometimes required to treat continuing pain. * Rarely, the coccyx may be surgically removed. Outlook * The prognosis for coccyx discomfort depends on many factors: o The original cause of the problem (whether from trauma, tumor, or infection) o If traumatic, the severity of the injury (a bruise, fracture, or dislocation) o The patient's ability to comply with medical treatment o The patient's natural ability to recuperate and heal * The majority of cases of traumatic coccyx injury get better within several weeks of the injury with proper medical treatment. * A few people suffer from chronic coccyx discomfort despite proper medical treatment. This can be an extremely frustrating and debilitating problem. Coccyx Injury / Bruises A bruise to the tailbone can be a very painful event. The coccyx is sensitive and any jarring effect is likely to resonate throughout the spine. Bruising does not require medical care, but some home based remedies are recommended. Ice is great for the first 24 to 48 hours, followed by heat. OTC pain management is ok, if the pain is severe. Hydrotherapy is also a good choice for a bruised tailbone. Make sure to avoid aggravating the pain by sitting or lying on your back.

Take some Ibuprofen & Paracetamol together, works a treat!