The tailbone (coccyx) is the small bone at the lower end of the spine. A tailbone injury may involve stretched ligaments, bruising, or a broken bone (fracture).Tailbone injuries can be painful, and some may take a long time to heal.
CAUSES: This condition is often caused by falling and landing on the tailbone
Other causes may include repeated strain or friction from actions such as rowing and bicycling or Childbirth
Symptoms:
- Pain in the lower back, especially when sitting.
- Pain or difficulty when standing up from a sitting position.
- Bruising in the tailbone area.
- Painful bowel movements.
- In women, pain during intercourse.
DIAGNOSIS: This condition may be diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical exam. X-rays may be taken if a fracture is suspected. You may also have other tests, such as a CT scan or MRI.
TREATMENT
This condition may be treated with medicines to help relieve your pain. Most tailbone injuries heal on their own in 4–6 weeks.
Local injection of steroid and local anesthetic with the needle positioned at or near sacrococcygeal junction.
Ganglion Impar block may be used in patients who fail to respond to NSAIDS or local injection.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS:Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider. If directed, apply ice to the injured area. Sit on a large, rubber or inflated ring or cushion to ease your pain. Eat a diet that includes plenty of fiber to help prevent constipation