Tail Bone Pain (Coccydynia) Treatment in Singapore - Singapore Sports And Orthopaedic Clinic

What is Coccydynia (Tail Bone Pain)?

Coccydynia is a medical term meaning pain in the coccyx or tailbone area, often brought on by a fall onto the coccyx or by persistent irritation usually from sitting. (source: wikipedia)

Coccydynia is the inflammation of the tip of the tailbone and the pain is often worse on sitting.

Is Coccydynia serious?

It is usually not a serious condition. However, it is important that you are examined in case there is a less common cause of your symptoms e.g. a fracture.

Symptoms of Coccydynia

The main symptom of Coccydynia is pain & tenderness in the area just above the buttocks (at the base of your spine). The severity of the pain varies between 2 persons. It is usually dull / achy most of the time, with possibly occasional sharp pains.

How is Coccydynia Pain Diagnosed?

Coccydynia is commonly diagnosed based solely on the symptoms and the examination findings of local tenderness over the tailbone.

What are the Causes of Coccydynia?

Coccydynia is often caused by an injury, but it may occur spontaneously. There are many causes of tailbone pain which can mimic coccydynia, including sciatica, infection, pilonidal cysts, and a fractured coccyx bone.

Some other causes includes:

Childbirth
Injuring your coccyx
Ageing
Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Being overweight or underweight etc

What are the Treatments for Coccydynia (Tail Bone Pain) in Singapore?

Treatments include using a well-padded seat when sitting and avoid long periods of sitting when possible. Some patients with persistent coccydynia are treated with local cortisone injection.

Some other treatment methods includes:

Manual manipulation
Massage
Stretching
TENS unit

Tail Bone Pain (Coccydynia) FAQ

Which doctor to see for tailbone pain?

You should speak with a hip surgeon if your tailbone discomfort doesn't go away. In order to rule out other diseases, your orthopedist may perform an examination, looking for things like a fracture, degenerative disorders, or even a tumour around the tailbone.

Should I be worried if my tailbone hurts?

If the pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, consult a doctor. Most of the time, tailbone discomfort isn't serious. It might occasionally indicate an injury. Pain in the tailbone is a relatively uncommon symptom of malignancy.

What causes tailbone pain without an injury?

Often sitting on a hard surface for an extended period of time, as well as on an uncomfortable or bouncy seat, can cause tailbone pain. In other instances, pain may be the result of alterations in sitting posture brought on by ageing or fat.

Will a tailbone heal on its own?

The coccyx will typically heal on its own if it is damaged or bruised. Pain relief and a quicker recovery are possible with physical therapy, exercises, and a customised cushion. Surgery is needed in fewer than 10% of instances. See a doctor if you are having issues with urine or bowel motions.

If you would like an appointment / review with our coccydynia (tail bone pain) specialist in Singapore, the best way is to call +65 3135 1327 or click here to book an appointment at the clinic. If you would like to speak to one of our clinicians first then please contact contact@orthopaedicclinic.com.sg or SMS/WhatsApp to +65 3135 1327

Rest assured that the best possible care will be provided for you.

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