Coccyx pain
A highly innervated area
Coccyx pain (or Coccydynia) is pain located at the very end of your spine, at the bottom of your sacrum.
The main symptom is an annoying, persistent tenderness pain.
The coccyx is a triangular bone that consists of three to five fused segments.
The biggest of these segments articulates with the sacrum.
It is the final segment of the vertebral column, and the remnant of a vestigial tail, hence the name tailbone.
Sitting or bending forward can exacerbate the symptoms, but sometimes people refer feeling worse also when on the toilet, while having sex, or during the menstrual period.
Causes of coccyx pain
It can easily be caused by several factors, and identifying the underlying cause is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan. Some common causes include
Trauma
A direct injury or fall onto the tailbone can lead to coccydynia, causing inflammation and discomfort in the region.
Prolonged sitting
Sitting for extended periods, especially on hard surfaces, can exert pressure on the tailbone, leading to irritation and pain.
Repetitive strain
Activities that involve repetitive movements or sitting in awkward positions for extended periods can strain the tailbone. I remember one of my clients was experiencing severe coccydynia because she was having breakfast in bed everyday, sitting in an awkward position.
Childbirth
In some cases, childbirth can cause injury or trauma to the entire pelvis and sacrum, leading to persistent pain.
Degenerative conditions
Conditions like osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease can also affect the coccyx, causing pain and discomfort.
Chiropractic treatments
Chiropractic care offers non-invasive and drug-free treatment options for coccyx pain. Skilled chiropractors use gentle techniques to address misalignments and promote natural healing. Some common chiropractic treatments include:
Spinal Adjustment: Chiropractic adjustments can realign the spine, including the coccyx, to alleviate pressure on the affected area and restore proper function.
Pelvic Stabilization Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the pelvis and lower back can provide support to the coccyx and aid in its healing.
Posture Correction: Chiropractors can assess and correct poor posture habits that may contribute to coccyx pain.
Home remedies
In addition to chiropractic treatments, individuals experiencing coccyx pain can try the following home remedies to complement their recovery:
Ice or Heat Packs: Applying ice or heat packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Cushioned Seat: Using a cushion with a cut-out or coccyx relief area when sitting can reduce pressure on the tailbone.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Take breaks from sitting, especially on hard surfaces, to reduce strain on the coccyx.
Gentle Stretching: Engage in gentle stretching exercises that focus on the lower back and pelvic region to promote flexibility and reduce tension.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provide temporary relief from coccyx pain, but should be used sparingly.
Coccydynia can be a challenging condition to live with, but chiropractic care offers a drug-free and effective approach to treating this discomfort. Through spinal adjustments, soft tissue manipulation, and targeted exercises, chiropractors can provide relief and support the natural healing process. Additionally, individuals can adopt home remedies and lifestyle changes to aid their recovery. If you experience persistent coccyx pain, consult with a qualified chiropractor to develop a personalized treatment plan and regain your comfort and mobility.
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