Coccyx luxation

Low urgency
Common-

The luxation of the coccyx consists of the separation of the sacrum bone and the coccyx through the stretching of the ligaments that join them.

The most common causes are a direct impact after a fall and during childbirth.

It manifests as very severe pain in the tailbone area. Typically, the pain is more severe when pressure is applied or when sitting on a hard surface.

Diagnosis is through clinical history and physical examination of the area.

Treatment is based on pain killers or anti-inflammatory drugs. A cushion with a hole in the centre or a float that prevents direct pressure on the tailbone while seated may also be used. Surgical treatment should be considered in cases of intense, persistent pain or pain that limits normal life.

Bibliographic references
  1. Patrick M Foye. Coccydynia (coccygodynia). UpToDate. Apr 05, 2016
  2. Lirette LS, Chaiban G, Tolba R, Eissa H. Coccydynia: an overview of the anatomy, etiology, and treatment of coccyx pain. Ochsner J 2014; 14:84.
  3. Maigne JY, Pigeau I, Aguer N, et al. Chronic coccydynia in adolescents. A series of 53 patients. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2011; 47:245.
  4. Choi SB, Cwinn AA. Pelvic trauma. In: Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014:chap 55.
  5. Vora A, Yin AX. Coccydynia. In: Frontera, WR, Silver JK, Rizzo TD Jr, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 103.
  6. Foye PM, Buttaci CJ, Stitik TP, Yonclas PP. Successful injection for coccyx pain. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2006; 85:783.
Author
Dr. Elvira Moreno
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Tailbone pain


    Tailbone pain increases when sitting down


    Tailbone bruise


    Bruising around the injury

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)
Pain that doesn't subside with analgesics

Self-care

Consume over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Try not to lift heavy objects.
Use a pillow or inflatable rubber ring to sit on.
Reduce the time spent sitting down.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.