In general, coccyx pain is caused by injury. Coccyx injuries are due to direct impact from a fall onto your bottom. The severity of the injury can range from a bruise to a fracture. Most coccyx injuries heal on their own given time and self-management.
Below are some of the advice to help people with coccyx pain:
- People with coccyx pain are advised to avoid sitting for long periods, so if you can stand during the day, that is recommended. If you must sit, leaning forward will take some of the pressure off your coccyx.
- Some people find sitting on a “coccyx cushion”, which has a U-Shaped design at the back, helps to avoid weight bearing on the coccyx while sitting.
- Cold compression can be applied for up to 20 minutes at a time, several times throughout the day.
- Simple pain killers such as paracetamol and/or ibuprofen can be very effective for helping with pain and swelling, but don’t use them for more than 2 weeks without seeking medical advice.
- Exercises. It is important to keep your lumbar spine moving normally. The exercises below will help to gently maintain or regain normal movement:
- (a) Extension Facing Wall. Stand, leaning against a wall with your feet 30 cm (1 foot) from the wall. Puch your stomach and pelvis towards the wall and hold for 5 seconds before returning to the start position. Repeat 2-3 times each hour. (Note – if your stomach touches the wall, move your feet backwards a little for the next stretch.
- (b) Side Flexion in Standing. Stand with your arms by your side. Slowly slide one hand down the outside of your leg so you feel a stretch. Slowly return to the upright position and repeat to the opposite side. Repeat 2-3 times every hour.
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