Coccydynia: A Real Pain in The Butt

The coccyx, also known as the tailbone, has many important functions. The tailbone is a small triangular shaped bone comprised of coccygeal vertebrae. The base of the coccyx articulates with the sacrum. It also acts as an attachment site for muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor. The coccyx functions in providing weight bearing support to an individual in a seated position. 

Muscles which attach to the coccyx: gluteus maximus (your buttocks), levator ani (your pelvic floor), coccygeus (your pelvic floor). 

Typically, someone experiencing coccydynia, or tailbone pain, will complain of pain when sitting or standing for long periods, performing a sit to stand movement, or leaning back or slouched while sitting. 

How do we get tailbone pain to begin with?

• Traumatic injury
• Fall backward onto your butt
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Posture

These types of tailbone insults can be successfully treated with pelvic floor physical therapy. In fact 90% of coccyx pain will respond to conservative management! 

So what are some helpful tools for that pain in your butt?

1. Supported standing hip shift 

2. Child's Pose Stretch

3. Use of a wedge pillow, such as Kabootie Click Here For More Info On Kabootie

4. Cat Cow Stretch