Tailbone (Coccyx) Injury

Back Pain Slideshow

• Tailbone Injury Overview
• Tailbone Injury Causes
• Tailbone Injury Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Tailbone Injury Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps
• Follow-up
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Tailbone Injury Overview

The coccyx, or tailbone, is the triangular bony structure located at the bottom of the vertebral column. It is composed of three to five bony segments held in place by joints and ligaments.

A coccyx or tailbone injury results in pain and discomfort in the tailbone area (the condition is called coccydynia). These injuries may result in a bruise, dislocation, or break (fracture) of the coccyx. Although they may be slow to heal, the majority of coccyx injuries can be managed with conservative treatment.

The majority of coccyx injuries occur in women because the female pelvis is broader, and the coccyx is more exposed.