Pain in the Butt - Coccydynia Means Coccyx Pain

Coccydynia refers to pain and tenderness originating from the coccyx. The coccyx is commonly referred to as the tailbone (Figure 1). It is a small curved V-shaped bone at the bottom of the spine (Figure 2). It is the final segment of the vertebral column comprising of two to four separate or fused vertebrae (lies below the sacrum). The coccyx provides an important attachment for tendons, ligaments and muscles. Most doctors are not very familiar with the coccyx or its problems. The coccyx has very little movement, excessive movement of the coccyx is abnormal. When sitting, the coccyx shifts forward and acts as a shock absorber (Figure 3). The coccyx bears more weight when the person is sitting and leaning backwards compared to when leaning forward. Routine lumbosacral spine x-rays and MRI will not show the coccyx. If you want to view the coccyx, order coccyx views or MRI (Figure 4). Dynamic views of the coccyx, while the patient is sitting and leaning backwards is needed for imaging the coccyx. These x-rays should then be compared to films with patient standing or lying on their side. Imaging of the coccyx is always difficult and the x-rays, that are obtained, will be unclear. Some of the obstructing factors are bowels, obesity, and clothing artifacts. Coccydynia Pain Symptoms: Dull aching pain symptoms are associated with coccydynia. The pain becomes sharp during siting or when getting up from sitting, pain originating in the middle just above the anus, pain im...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news