What is coccyx fracture?

The last bone is at the end of the spine. Occasionally known as the "tailbone," it technically consists of four small bones fused together. A coccyx fracture refers to a partial or complete break in this area.

What are the symptoms of coccyx fracture?

There will be tenderness, swelling, and possibly bruising visible. Sitting, getting up, and walking are quite painful, as are bowel movements.

You will need to see a doctor for a diagnosis. Your doctor will discuss your symptoms and injury history. Then, a physical examination of your lower back and coccyx, along with X-rays, will be carried out to identify the break and plan treatment.

What causes coccyx fracture?

Coccyx fractures typically occur from a backward fall or a severe blow to the coccyx. Although the coccyx has some elasticity, this flexibility allows it to absorb impact. Instead, it distributes shock along the length of the bone, leading to a crack or a break in that area.

What is the treatment for coccyx fracture?

Conservative treatment for coccyx fractures relieves symptoms while the bone heals. Some recommendations of your doctor that may include reducing inflammation and pain are the following:

Positioning: Sit down and recline to place the majority of your body weight over your legs. Get a doughnut-shaped pillow or child's inner tube and position it in the seat of your chair. If you're a back sleeper, place pillows under your legs. If you're a side sleeper in bed, a pillow can be placed between your legs for support. Each of these should decrease pressure on the coccyx.
Ice: To reduce swelling, an ice pack wrapped in a towel may be applied to the area for the first few days. This may be done 3 to 4 daily for 15 to 20 minutes until the swelling subsides.
Heat: A warm bath, heating pad, electric blanket, or other heat source may help relieve pain.
Medications: Your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections to relieve pain and stool softeners to cure constipation.
Physical and occupational therapy: Your doctor will recommend you undergo rehabilitation therapy or other treatment options that can help you recover.

The treatment, however, is unlikely to require any surgical intervention, though your doctor may consider discussing it with you. As with all surgery, there is always a risk to the surgical procedure itself.

What is the Outlook (prognosis) for coccyx fracture?

Generally speaking, coccyx fractures heal within about 4 to 8 weeks. The healing time for the area will be longer if surgical intervention is necessary. Each case varies with patient recovery, as healing depends upon age, general health condition, extent of the injury, and how well you follow your physician's instructions.