Coccydynia

Pain in the coccyx or coccydynia may be due to injury, a baby pushing against the mother’s coccyx during birth or prolonged pressure due to poor posture while sitting. Often, no cause is found.


Before making a diagnosis, your doctor may carry out a rectal examination to rule out a tumour in the rectum. Women may also have a vaginal examination to look for a tumour in the uterus. Your doctor may also arrange for you to have an X-ray of the lower spine to look for signs of injury.

Coccydynia may be relieved with a painkiller or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. You may also be able to ease the pain by applying heat to the area with a heat pad or cold with an ice pack. A local injection with a Corticosteroid drug, often in combination with an anaesthetic, can sometimes provide relief. Usually no further treatment is necessary.