Coccydnia is a condition involving inflammation around the coccyx that causes pain at the very bottom of the spine. This condition is also referred to as tailbone pain, coccyx pain and coccygeal pain.

What is the Cause?

This condition is usually caused by trauma to the Coccyx such as a fall or childbirth. It is much more common in females than males largely due to it’s link to childbirth. This is also due to the fact that females more commonly have an anteriorly tilted pelvis making their coccyx stick out more. This means that females are much more likely to put pressure on their coccyx whilst sitting.

Coccydinia can develop after a partial dislocation of the Sacrococcygeal Synchondrosis, which is the connective tissue that connects the Sacrum and Coccyx. This causes trauma to the surrounding muscles and ligaments leading to the inflammation, which is responsible for much of the pain and discomfort experienced.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Persistent pain at the bottom of the spine
  • Pain when sitting
  • Pain going from sitting to standing

What Can We Do About It?

Clients that are suffering from Coccydnia are advised to avoid putting pressure on the Coccyx until the pain starts to subside. Using a donut pillow or gel cushion can be useful whilst sitting for long periods of time.

Other treatments such as deep tissue therapy and gentle mobilisation of the Coccyx have been shown to yield great results and can be performed by the therapist’s at Elite Spinal Physiotherapy.