When a painful "end" is in sight
Some injuries to our bodies can be a real pain in the you-know-what….literally. An injured coccyx, or tailbone, is most notably one of them. Fortunately, treating an injured “hindquarters” region is not very complicated.
Most coccyx injuries are sustained by direct trauma to the tailbone area, according to sources at www.emedicinehealth.com/tailbone_coccyx_injury. Injury to this area can occur if you were to fall directly onto your tailbone in the seated position right against a hard surface.
Involvement with contact sports that may allow for a direct blow to the area can injure the coccyx. Even childbirth can create problems for the coccyx. If you are an avid cyclist or rowing enthusiast, the repetitive straining and friction can lead to severe discomfort and pain in your tailbone.
Click here to comment on this article.Less common sources of pain and discomfort to this area of the body can be introduced through bone spurs, compression of nerve roots, injuries to other areas of the spine, infections, or tumors.
One of the most tell-tale signs that indicates you have injured your tailbone is highly intense and localized pain that can be felt in that region. If the injury is quite traumatic, you may notice bruising in that area. The pain may intensify if you have to sit for long periods of time or if you apply direct pressure to the area. The simple act of having a bowel movement can cause great pain. Some women may even notice unusual pain during intercourse.
If you notice any signs of injury or discomfort to your tailbone, be sure to consult a doctor. He or she can ascertain if the pain is related to a direct blow or trauma to the area or if the pain is related to other more serious issues.
Coccyx injuries rarely require a feverish dash to the emergency room. However, if you cannot reach your doctor or simply have no doctor and are in significant pain or have great concerns about your injury, then it would be advisable to visit the nearest emergency room.
These types of injuries can be quite painful, so all home care techniques are specifically designed to reduce that pain and to prevent further irritation to the coccyx.
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I hurt myself this way once while playing college tennis and never again do I want to experience that pain!
Ann - I slipped on an icy sidewalk in Chicago many years ago and injured my coccyx (tailbone) and the pain was excruciating. Shortly afterwards I decided to move to a state that didn't have ice or snow, and I haven't looked back.
Thanks for posting this information.
Take good care,
Pat
Thanks, Pat! I can only imagine the pain! I am glad you are some place warm! I am jealous! I live in the Kansas City area....ice is prevelant in the winter!