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The tailbone (coccyx) is located at the very bottom of the spine and connects to the sacrum (triangular bone at the bottom) through the sacroiliac joint. Coccydynia is the medical term for pain in the coccyx, which often worsens during sitting or active activities and puts pressure on the lower spine.
The pain can be caused by pregnancy and childbirth, trauma, such as a hard fall, or a blow to the area from contact sports. In rare cases, pain can result from an infection or tumor. If you experience pain when you sit, seek diagnosis and possible treatment from the best pain management specialists at NYPC.
The coccyx provides stability in a sitting position and flexibility for the pelvis and hip bones during movement. Coccygeal pain is more common in women than in men because women have a broader pelvic structure than men. The pain is usually limited to the tailbone and does not spread to other body parts.
Common symptoms of coccydynia include:
Pain can range from mild and aching to shooting and severe, depending on your anatomy and the underlying cause of the discomfort. Hence, relying on the best doctors to get a precise diagnosis and the proper treatment for your specific situation is essential.
Treatment options for coccygodynia range from medications and padded seat cushions to sacral nerve stimulation and possible surgical intervention. Many people with coccydynia see accurate results when treated with non-surgical methods. People with this condition must be careful, as it can worsen if they continue to sit or suffer additional trauma.
These treatments include:
In rare cases, if non-surgical methods have not worked or if there is concern about infection or tumor, surgery to remove the coccyx may be recommended.
For those patients who spend extensive amounts of time sitting or have incurred a recent injury to the tailbone, coccydynia can be an incredibly painful condition. Your top pain management doctors in NYC always advise you about the most beneficial treatment for coccydynia. Contact us for specific recommendations.
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