Coccydynia is a throbbing or aching pain in and around the area of the tailbone (coccyx). The pain of coccydynia can be constant and sometimes severe, limiting activity that requires sitting and reducing the quality of life for those who experience it.
When a patient has developed coccydynia, their tailbone becomes irritated and creates immense tenderness between the buttocks. Due to this inflammation, intense pain is felt when sitting as well as during sexual intercourse and bowel movements.
Pain can be the result of childbirth, a medical procedure such as colonoscopy, and pelvic floor muscle spasms. A common cause in females is trauma that occurs during difficult labor and delivery. Coccydynia occurs 5 times more frequently in women than in men, with a mean age of 40 years. The fact that giving birth puts substantial pressure on the tailbone is thought to be a factor in the increased risk for women.
Our physical therapists at PT Center for Women can help treat coccydynia by decreasing pain symptoms and improving function. Our patients are evaluated first, and an appropriate program is developed based on their specific needs and life. Treatment is done through exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, ultrasound and heat, manual therapy, and correction of posture.
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