Coccyx Injury
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
A coccyx (tailbone) injury
A coccyx (tailbone) injury may include a fracture or dislocation.
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Common signs and symptoms:
Coccyx pain may last for a short time or continue longer than 2 months. You may have any of the following:
- Pain when you sit or stand
- Pain in your buttocks that spreads to your thighs or legs
- Pain during bowel movements, when having sex, and when bending or lifting objects
- Bruises or swelling on your coccyx or lower back
- Low backache or pressure in your pelvis
- Trouble standing up or walking
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You cannot move your legs.
- Your legs suddenly go numb.
Seek care immediately if:
- You have severe pain.
Call your doctor if:
- You have trouble urinating or having a bowel movement.
- Your pain or swelling gets worse or do not go away with treatment.
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment
may include any of the following:
- Reduction may be needed if you have a dislocated coccyx. Your healthcare provider will move your tailbone into the correct position by hand.
- Medicines may be needed to relieve pain or to make it easier and less painful to have a bowel movement.
Manage your symptoms:
- Use a donut-shaped cushion to decrease pain and support your coccyx when you sit.
- Apply ice to help decrease swelling and pain. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel and place it on your coccyx for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed.
- Sleep on a firm mattress. Place a pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back. Or, sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees. This will decrease pain and tension in your coccyx and back.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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