Coccyx Pain: Here Are Some Management Strategies
- InnerWellness
- Feb 19
- 4 min read
If you’ve ever experienced coccyx pain—often described as a sharp, aching discomfort at the base of your spine—you know how it can affect your daily life. Whether it’s discomfort while sitting, standing, or even during intimate moments, this pain can be frustrating and challenging to manage. But the good news is, you don’t have to endure it in silence. Our osteopathic approach offers effective treatments and lifestyle strategies to help you find relief and regain control of your health.
What is Coccyx Pain?
Coccyx pain, or coccydynia, refers to discomfort or pain in the tailbone (coccyx), located at the base of your spine. The pain can be intermittent or persistent and can vary in intensity from mild to severe. It is most commonly felt when sitting, especially on hard surfaces, but can also cause discomfort when standing, bending, or moving from one position to another.
The coccyx itself is a small triangular bone, and although it serves as a support for muscles and ligaments in the pelvic region, it’s also quite vulnerable to injury. Pain can develop due to various causes, which we’ll explore below.
Common Causes of Coccyx Pain
Injury or Trauma: A fall or impact to the tailbone—such as during a car accident or a hard landing during physical activity—can lead to inflammation and irritation of the coccyx.
Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods, especially on hard or uncomfortable surfaces, can strain the tailbone and the surrounding muscles and ligaments, contributing to pain over time.
Childbirth: Women who have recently given birth may experience coccyx pain due to the pressure exerted on the tailbone during labor and delivery.
Poor Posture: Slouching or sitting with poor posture can lead to imbalances in the pelvis and spine, which may strain the coccyx and lead to pain.
Muscle Imbalance or Tension: Tightness in the pelvic floor muscles, glutes, or lower back muscles can place unnecessary stress on the coccyx, leading to discomfort.
Degenerative Conditions: Conditions like arthritis, or changes in the alignment of the spine, can cause wear and tear on the coccyx, leading to chronic pain.
How Osteopathy Can Help with Coccyx Pain
Osteopathic treatment focuses on finding the root causes of pain and addressing them holistically. In the case of coccyx pain, osteopaths will assess not only your spine but also your posture, muscle imbalances, and soft tissue health to develop a tailored treatment plan. Here are some ways that osteopathy can support your healing journey:
1. Sitting Strategies
If you suffer from coccyx pain, your sitting habits are critical. Sitting for long periods can exacerbate the discomfort, but there are ways to reduce strain on your tailbone:
Cushioned Seating: Use a soft cushion or a doughnut-shaped pillow that has a cutout in the center. This will reduce direct pressure on the coccyx.
Proper Posture: Focus on sitting upright with your weight evenly distributed on both hips. Avoid slouching or leaning to one side, as these positions can exacerbate pain. Keep your knees at a 90-degree angle and your feet flat on the floor.
Take Frequent Breaks: If your job requires sitting for long hours, take breaks every 30-60 minutes. Stand, stretch, and walk around to relieve pressure on the coccyx.
2. Pelvic Floor Considerations
The pelvic floor muscles play a key role in supporting the coccyx. Tightness or dysfunction in these muscles can exacerbate coccyx pain. Osteopathic treatment may involve:
Pelvic Floor Release: Techniques such as gentle myofascial release and soft tissue manipulation can help release tension in the pelvic floor muscles, which may relieve pain and improve alignment.
Strengthening Exercises: In some cases, strengthening the pelvic floor can offer support to the coccyx and alleviate discomfort. Osteopaths may recommend specific exercises to improve muscle tone and support the region.
Breathing Techniques: Proper diaphragmatic breathing can help relax the pelvic floor and reduce tension in the tailbone area.Both Dr Lyndsay Spencer and Dr Bec Malon are pelvic health specialists. Book here to schedule an appointment and allow them to support you on your pelvic health journey.
3. Release Techniques and Manual Therapy
Osteopathic techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, myofascial release, and articulatory techniques are designed to restore normal movement and function to the muscles and joints surrounding the coccyx. These techniques help release tension, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, ultimately providing relief from pain.
Coccyx Mobilisation: In some cases, an osteopath may use gentle techniques to mobilise the coccyx itself, which can help relieve stiffness and discomfort caused by misalignment or injury.
Stretching and Trigger Point Release: Tension in the glute muscles, hamstrings, and lower back can contribute to coccyx pain. Specific stretching and release techniques can help ease muscle tightness and reduce pain.
4. Sex Positions and Intimacy Considerations
For many people, coccyx pain can affect their intimate life. Certain sexual positions can place additional strain on the coccyx, leading to discomfort during or after intercourse. Here are some recommendations to minimise strain:
Side-Lying Positions: Try side-lying positions, which reduce pressure on the coccyx while still allowing for intimacy.
Use of Pillows: Placing pillows under the hips or back can provide extra support and cushion the tailbone during intimate moments.
Avoiding Deep Penetration: Positions that place direct pressure on the coccyx—such as doggy style—should be avoided, as they may exacerbate pain.
Gentle Movement: During intimacy, avoid sudden, jerky movements that could strain the coccyx. Slow and gentle motions are less likely to cause discomfort.
Ongoing Care and Prevention of Coccyx Pain
In addition to osteopathic treatments, lifestyle changes can also help prevent the recurrence of coccyx pain. Staying active, maintaining good posture, and regularly practicing pelvic floor exercises are just a few ways to keep your body in balance.
If you’re experiencing coccyx pain, don’t wait to get the support you need. By offering a combination of osteopathic care, mindful sitting strategies, pelvic floor support, and tailored advice for intimacy, we aim to empower you to manage and ultimately overcome coccyx pain.
Schedule an appointment today, and together, we’ll work to bring you the relief and comfort you deserve.
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