What causes tailbone pain?

Coccyx pain, known as coccydynia or sacrococcygeal pain, refers to pain in the coccyx—the final segment of the spine located at the bottom of the spinal column. The coccyx is one of the main weight-bearing areas of the body when sitting. Therefore, any injury or disease affecting the coccyx or surrounding soft tissues may cause pain.

1. Trauma: Direct external forces acting on the coccyx, such as falls or collisions, may result in coccyx fractures or dislocations, causing pain.

2. Poor posture: Maintaining improper sitting posture for prolonged periods—for example, sitting on hard, unsupportive surfaces or frequently changing sitting positions—can place pressure on the coccyx and cause pain.

3. Childbirth: During delivery, pressure and stretching of the birth canal may injure the coccyx, making postpartum coccyx pain quite common among women.

4. Aseptic inflammation: Prolonged sitting, standing, or continuously bending forward with the head lowered may cause aseptic inflammation of the muscles, fascia, or tendons around the coccyx. This inflammation can lead to local congestion and edema, stimulating surrounding nerves and resulting in pain.

5. Lumbar disc herniation: Herniation of lumbar intervertebral discs may compress nerve roots, causing referred pain in the coccygeal region. Diagnosis requires lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and treatment measures should be implemented according to the severity of the condition.

If persistent pain occurs, it is recommended to seek immediate medical examination at a hospital.