Tailbone Pain
Tailbone pain (coccydynia)
What is it?
Commonly referred to as the tailbone, the coccyx is the bony tip located between the buttocks. Coccydynia is an inflammation and pain of the tailbone.
Causes, Symptoms and Risk Factors
The pain associated with coccydynia can appear suddenly and often occurs after an injury.
Tests
A doctor will diagnose coccydynia by performing a physical examination, reviewing symptoms and medical history, and conducting imaging test, such as X-rays, an MRI or CT scans.
Treatments
Treatments for coccydynia include:
- Sitting on a pad
- Resting
- Taking anti-inflammatory medication
- Receiving cortisone injections
If pain persists, the doctor may recommend surgery, although surgical treatment of coccydynia is rare.