We all have fallen on our tailbones once or twice. Whether it’s a slip on a wet road, an unfortunate stumble down the stairs, or even an unexpected slide off a bicycle seat, we have all felt that pain. These incidents, causing temporary discomfort, can sometimes lead to more severe consequences – a broken tailbone. Let’s discuss how to understand broken tailbone symptoms and what to do about it.
Table of Contents
What is a Broken Tailbone?
The tailbone, or coccyx, is a small, triangular bone at the base of the spine. While it may seem insignificant, the coccyx plays a crucial role in supporting our body when we sit or make movements.
A broken tailbone, or coccygeal fracture, occurs when one or more of the coccyx bones are fractured or cracked. These fractures can range from minor hairline cracks to severe breaks.
What Causes a Bruised Tailbone?
A bruised tailbone typically results from direct trauma to the coccyx.
Common causes include falls, sports injuries, or accidents where the person lands on their buttocks.
The impact can lead to bruising, swelling, and discomfort. However, it usually doesn’t involve a fracture or break in the bone itself.
Suggested Read: How to Treat Stress Fractures from Sports Activities?
What are the Broken Tailbone Symptoms?
You may not understand the pain radiating from your coccyx is due to bruising or a broken bone. Here are the common symptoms to watch out for:
Pain and Tenderness
Pain is the hallmark symptom of a broken tailbone. You will likely experience localized pain and tenderness at the base of your spine, specifically around the coccyx area.
The pain may worsen when sitting, standing, or during bowel movements.
Suggested Read: An Overview of Top 5 Common Spine Problems!
Bruising and Swelling
In some cases, bruising and swelling may accompany a fractured coccyx. It can make the area around the tailbone appear discolored and feel warm to the touch.
Painful Bowel Movements
Passing stools can become excruciating if you have a broken tailbone. Sitting on the toilet and the pressure exerted during bowel movements can intensify the pain.
Painful or Discomfort During Intercourse
Sexual activity may also be painful if it involves pressure on the coccyx. This discomfort can strain relationships and significantly impact one’s quality of life.
Pain When Sitting for Extended Periods
Sitting for prolonged periods, especially on hard surfaces, can be agonizing for individuals with a broken tailbone. It often leads to them avoiding sitting altogether.
Radiating Pain
Sometimes, the pain from a fractured coccyx may radiate into the legs, mimicking sciatica symptoms.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in intensity from person to person. While some individuals may experience severe pain and immediate swelling, others might only notice mild discomfort initially.
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How Can You Tell the Difference Between a Bruised and Broken Tailbone?
Differentiating between a bruised and broken tailbone can be challenging because their symptoms overlap. However, there are a few key distinctions to keep in mind:
Severity of Pain
A bruised tailbone typically causes milder discomfort, whereas a broken tailbone results in more intense and persistent pain.
Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling can occur with both conditions, but they might be more pronounced in a bruised tailbone due to the soft tissue injury involved.
X-rays and Imaging
The most definitive way to distinguish between a bruised and broken tailbone is through imaging studies, such as X-rays.
You can book a lab test such as an X-ray or an MRI Scan via Healthwire App.
A broken tailbone reveals fractures or cracks in the bone, whereas a bruised tailbone will not show such abnormalities.
Given these differences, if you suspect a tailbone injury and the pain is severe or doesn’t improve within a few days, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.
How Do You Manage Broken Tailbone Symptoms?
Managing the symptoms of a broken tailbone is primarily focused on pain relief and allowing the bone to heal. Here are some strategies to help alleviate discomfort:
Pain Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Ice Packs
Applying ice packs to the affected area can reduce swelling and numb the pain. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to prevent direct contact with the skin. Put the ice pack on for 10-20 minutes on the tailbone and try to do it for 1-2 hours daily.
Cushions and Padding
Specialized cushions can relieve pressure on the coccyx and make sitting more bearable. Additionally, using a donut-shaped cushion can help alleviate discomfort.
Avoiding Sit-Ups and Squats
Engaging in activities that strain the tailbone, such as sit-ups and squats, should be avoided until the bone has fully healed.
Gentle Exercises
Some gentle stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a healthcare provider can promote healing and prevent muscle stiffness.
Hygiene Considerations
Be mindful of personal hygiene, especially during bowel movements, to minimize pain and discomfort.
Suggested Read: Home Remedies to Treat Tailbone Pain!
How Long Does it Take a Broken Tailbone to Heal?
The healing time for a broken tailbone can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and how well it’s managed.
It can take several weeks to several months for a fractured coccyx to heal completely.
During this time, you should follow your healthcare provider’s advice and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain or slow down the healing process.
Recovery can be frustrating, as the tailbone area is essential in many everyday movements and activities.
However, patience and proper care are key to a successful recovery.
When Should You Visit an Orthopedic Surgeon?
You can manage most cases of broken tailbone without surgical intervention. However, there are instances when consulting an orthopedic surgeon is necessary.
Here are some scenarios that warrant a visit to a specialist:
Severe Fracture
If the fracture is severe, involves multiple bones, or is displaced, surgery can realign and stabilize the coccyx.
Infection Risk
If there is an open wound or a risk of infection in the coccyx area due to a fracture, surgical intervention can treat the tailbone area.
Non-Healing Fracture
If the fracture doesn’t show signs of healing after an extended period, surgical options such as coccygectomy (removal of the coccyx) may be the best option.
Neurological Symptoms
If the broken tailbone is causing neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, an orthopedic surgeon should evaluate the condition to rule out any nerve compression.
If you experience any of the above scenarios or if your symptoms worsen despite following conservative management, you should seek the expertise of a qualified orthopedic surgeon.
