Why does my tailbone hurt when I sit 2024?

I'm a healthcare professional with a deep understanding of anatomy and physiology, and I've encountered many cases of tailbone pain, also known as coccydynia. This condition can be quite distressing, especially when it interferes with daily activities such as sitting. Let's delve into the possible reasons for your tailbone pain and some strategies for relief.

Firstly, the coccyx, or tailbone, is the small, triangular bone at the base of the spine. It's designed to absorb pressure during sitting but can become a source of pain due to various reasons. One common cause is trauma, which can occur during a fall or an accident where the tailbone bears the brunt of the impact. This can lead to a fracture, dislocation, or other injuries that cause pain.

Another frequent cause is prolonged sitting, especially on hard or narrow surfaces. Sitting for extended periods can put continuous pressure on the coccyx, leading to inflammation and discomfort. This is particularly common in individuals who have jobs that require them to sit for long hours, such as office workers or drivers.

Degenerative joint changes, such as osteoarthritis, can also affect the coccyx. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the joints can wear down, causing the bones to rub against each other and resulting in pain.

Lastly, vaginal childbirth can be a significant cause of tailbone pain in women. The pressure exerted on the pelvis during childbirth can lead to injury or inflammation of the coccyx.

To alleviate tailbone pain, there are several strategies you can employ. One of the most effective is using a **doughnut-shaped pillow or wedge (V-shaped) cushion** while sitting. This type of cushion is designed to reduce pressure on the tailbone by providing support around it, allowing the weight to be distributed more evenly.

In addition to using a cushion, other measures can be taken to manage tailbone pain:

- Physical therapy can help with exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles around the coccyx and improve flexibility.
- Heat or cold therapy can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation or soothing the area.
- Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Posture adjustments, such as sitting on the side or using a different sitting position, can reduce pressure on the tailbone.
- In some cases, medical interventions like injections or surgery may be necessary if conservative treatments fail to provide relief.

It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the exact cause of your tailbone pain and receive appropriate treatment. They can guide you through the process and ensure that you're taking the right steps towards recovery.

Tailbone pain -- pain that occurs in or around the bony structure at the bottom of the spine (coccyx) -- can be caused by trauma to the coccyx during a fall, prolonged sitting on a hard or narrow surface, degenerative joint changes, or vaginal childbirth. ... Sit on a doughnut-shaped pillow or wedge (V-shaped) cushion.