Tailbone Pain

Tailbone pain, medically called coccydynia, is pain centered at the very bottom of the spine that typically worsens with sitting, especially on hard surfaces, or when transitioning from sitting to standing.

Common Causes

A fall directly onto the tailbone, childbirth, prolonged sitting on a hard or narrow surface, and repetitive strain (such as from cycling) are the most common triggers. Less commonly, it can result from a local infection, a bone spur, or, rarely, a tumor.

Who Is More Likely to Get It

Tailbone pain is more common in women, partly due to a wider, more exposed pelvic anatomy, and in people who are overweight or significantly underweight, both of which affect how weight is distributed while sitting.

Treatment

Most cases improve within a few weeks to months with simple measures: using a cushioned, coccyx-shaped seat cushion, avoiding prolonged sitting, applying ice or heat, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. Gentle stretching and, for persistent cases, physical therapy targeting the pelvic floor can also help.

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor if pain follows a significant fall or injury, is severe, doesn't improve after several weeks of self-care, or comes with numbness or bowel/bladder changes.