Chronic tailbone pain (coccydynia) can persist for various reasons. Here are some potential causes and contributing factors to consider:
1. Prolonged or Repeated Trauma Injury: A fall, childbirth, or repetitive strain (e.g., cycling) can injure the coccyx. If the injury hasn't fully healed or is aggravated, pain may persist. Microtrauma: Repeated stress from prolonged sitting on hard surfaces can worsen or prevent healing.
2. Poor Posture Poor sitting posture can put excessive pressure on the tailbone, aggravating existing pain.
3. Underlying Medical Conditions Arthritis: Degeneration of the coccygeal joints due to arthritis can cause chronic pain. Infections: In rare cases, an infection (e.g., a pilonidal cyst or abscess) near the tailbone can cause persistent pain. Tumors: Rarely, a tumor or abnormal growth in the pelvic area can cause tailbone pain.
4. Nerve-Related Pain Irritation or compression of nerves near the coccyx, such as the pudendal nerve, can lead to ongoing discomfort.
5. Improper Healing Dislocation or Fracture: If the coccyx was fractured or dislocated and didn't heal properly, pain could persist. Scar Tissue: If scar tissue formed after an injury, it could restrict movement and cause pain.
6. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Issues with the muscles and ligaments in the pelvic floor, such as tightness or weakness, can contribute to tailbone pain.
7. Idiopathic Coccydynia In some cases, the cause of chronic tailbone pain remains unclear despite medical evaluations.
What to Do Next Medical Evaluation: Consider consulting a healthcare provider, such as an orthopedic specialist, physical therapist, or pain management doctor. They may perform imaging (X-rays, MRI) to identify underlying issues.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Use a coccyx cushion or doughnut-shaped pillow to reduce pressure while sitting. Avoid prolonged sitting; take breaks to stand and stretch.
Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching the pelvic floor, gluteal, and lower back muscles can improve pain.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) may help. Injections (e.g., corticosteroids) may be recommended if inflammation is a major factor.
Surgical Options: In rare cases, removal of the coccyx (coccygectomy) may be necessary if other treatments fail.
If the pain is severe or worsening, it's critical to seek medical advice to rule out serious conditions and explore appropriate treatment options.
