The tailbone or coccyx is a bony triangular structure located at the end of the spinal column. It consists of three to five segments that are held in place by ligaments and joints. It is well protected in the body and as such not prone to severe injury. Injuries to the tailbone generally occur due to a fall or impact during sports, where the tailbone suffers bruising, dislocation or fracture. Damage or bruising to the tailbone results in a slow-healing condition called coccdynia. These injuries can be painful and may take quite some time to heal. Minor injuries heal if the patient rests and allows the body to repair itself. Broken tailbones may take 4-6 weeks to heal. If the pain persists, treatment such as anti-inflammatory medication, pain relievers, steroid injections and in very severe cases, surgery, may be prescribed by the doctor.
If the damage to the tailbone is not severe, you may use a massage technique involving the use of ice and heat. Massaging the area first with an ice pack, and then with a heat pack massage helps to reduce swelling and pain. It is also important that you take complete bed rest for the initial 2-3 days until the injury is slightly better. Activity must be kept to a bare minimum, as this irritates the injured tailbone and slows down healing. Constipation must be avoided as the strain caused due to bowel movement can be painful for the bruised tailbone. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables will help to prevent Constipation. Taking warm baths may also help to temporarily reduce painful muscle spasms that occur as a result of injury to the tailbone.
After a few days of healing, you may try physical therapy as a way to treat the injury. You can do this by lying on the ground on your back and keeping one leg straight while lifting the other leg and stretching it gently across the length of your body. You may also try walking to exercise the area. However, avoid riding a bicycle, running or swimming as these put a strain on the lower back. However, it is advisable to seek medical advice before trying any kind of physical therapy on your own. For relief from the pain and to reduce discomfort, use an air cushion for sitting. Move your weight away from the tailbone by leaning forward. It is also essential to increase your intake of foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, as this helps in a speedier recovery and also strengthens the bones.
answered by M W