What are the treatment options for coccydynia?

Coccydynia is pain around the coccyx, the small bone at the bottom of the spine. Sitting, leaning backwards, rising from a chair or bowel movements may aggravate it. An assessment looks for tenderness, movement restrictions, pelvic-floor or lower-back contributors, and signs that another condition needs attention. The treatment plan is adjusted to the trigger, duration and effect on daily activities.

Reduce direct pressure by changing sitting posture, taking regular standing breaks and using a suitable coccyx cushion. Avoiding activities that repeatedly strain the area can allow irritation to settle. Physiotherapy may address hip, lower-back and pelvic-floor movement, while teaching ways to sit, transfer and exercise more comfortably. If pain remains focused and limiting despite these measures, a specialist may discuss a cortisone injection near the painful area. The clinician will review possible benefits, limitations and risks before proceeding.

Arrange a medical assessment if tailbone pain lasts, interferes with sleep or work, follows a significant fall, or makes bowel movements difficult. Seek urgent help for new leg weakness, numbness around the groin, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, unexplained weight loss, or severe rapidly worsening pain. These features need evaluation rather than self-treatment alone.

Could another back, pelvic or bowel problem be causing this pain? Which sitting changes are most suitable for me? What would physiotherapy target? When would an injection be reasonable? Which symptoms should make me seek urgent help?