Tailbone pain—also known as coccydynia—is a frustrating and often debilitating condition that affects daily activities such as sitting, standing, driving, and even sleeping. Many people in Malaysia struggle with tailbone pain without knowing its cause or how to treat it effectively.
The good news is that chiropractic care is one of the most successful non-invasive treatments for long-term relief from coccydynia.
What Is Coccydynia?
Coccydynia refers to pain in the coccyx, the small triangular bone at the bottom of your spine. The coccyx consists of 3–5 fused vertebrae and serves as an anchor for pelvic floor muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
When this bone becomes inflamed, irritated, or misaligned, it can lead to sharp or aching pain—especially when sitting.
Common Causes of Coccydynia
Tailbone pain can develop from a single incident or gradually over time. Common causes include:
1. Trauma or Injury
- Falling backward onto a hard surface
- Sports injuries
- Car accidents
- Even minor trauma can misalign the coccyx or cause inflammation
2. Prolonged Sitting
Drivers, office workers, and students often develop tailbone pain due to continuous pressure on the coccyx.
3. Childbirth
The coccyx may shift or become strained as the pelvis widens during labor.
4. Poor Posture
Slouching, leaning backward, or sitting on hard surfaces increases mechanical stress on the tailbone.
5. Joint Degeneration
Age-related wear and tear can cause sacrococcygeal joint stiffness or inflammation.
6. Repetitive Strain
Activities like cycling or rowing place continuous pressure on the tailbone.
Symptoms of Coccydynia
Common symptoms include:
- Sharp or aching pain at the tailbone
- Pain that worsens when sitting or standing up
- Discomfort during bowel movements
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Local tenderness or swelling
- Relief when leaning forward or sitting on a cushion
If symptoms last more than two weeks, a professional evaluation is recommended.
How Chiropractors at iChiropractic Kuala Lumpur Diagnose Tailbone Pain
A chiropractic assessment typically includes:
1. Health History Review
Your chiropractor will discuss your pain, posture habits, previous injuries, and lifestyle factors.
2. Physical Examination
This includes checking:
- Tailbone tenderness
- Pelvic alignment
- Lower back and hip mobility
- Posture and gait
3. Imaging (If Needed)
X-rays or digital motion scans may be used to rule out fractures, dislocations, or structural abnormalities.
Chiropractic Treatment for Coccydynia in iChiropractic KL
Chiropractic treatment focuses on correcting the underlying mechanical cause of tailbone pain. Treatment may include:
1. Tailbone and Pelvic Adjustments
Gentle chiropractic adjustments help:
- Realign the coccyx
- Reduce inflammation
- Restore normal joint movement
- Reduce pressure on surrounding muscles
This is one of the most effective treatments for chronic tailbone pain.
2. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
ESWT helps by:
- Reducing chronic inflammation
- Improving blood circulation
- Breaking down scar tissue
3. Trigger Point Therapy & Myofascial Release
This helps:
- Release tight muscles around the pelvis
- Reduce muscle tension
- Improve mobility
4. Posture Correction
Your chiropractor may recommend:
- Ergonomic adjustments
- Improved sitting posture
- Coccyx cushions
- Standing desk strategies
5. Rehab & Strengthening Exercises
Targeted exercises help stabilize the pelvis and lower back, including:
- Pelvic tilts
- Core strengthening
- Glute and hip stretching
- Pelvic floor relaxation techniques
6. Simple Home Modifications
To reduce pain, your chiropractor may suggest:
- Using a donut cushion
- Avoiding hard chairs
- Taking breaks from sitting
- Applying ice
- Using anti-inflammatory gel
When Should You Seek Treatment?
Visit a chiropractor if you experience:
- Tailbone pain lasting more than 2–3 weeks
- Pain after a fall or injury
- Increased pain while sitting
- Pain that affects daily activity
- Repeated flare-ups
Early treatment helps prevent chronic inflammation and scar tissue.
Can Tailbone Pain Go Away on Its Own?
Mild cases may improve within a few weeks.
However, persistent or recurring pain is often caused by misalignment, which typically needs professional correction.
Conclusion
Coccydynia can be painful and disruptive, but with proper diagnosis and chiropractic care, most people achieve significant and lasting relief. If tailbone pain is affecting your daily life, chiropractic treatment can help address the root cause—not just the symptoms.
If you’re struggling with tailbone pain or coccydynia in Kuala Lumpur, iChiropractic is ready to help. With advanced techniques, personalized treatment plans, and an experienced chiropractic team, we’re committed to helping you return to a pain-free lifestyle.
Don’t let tailbone pain limit your life—schedule a consultation with iChiropractic KL today.