Coccydinia is the name given to pain in and around the coccyx, which is the last bone at the base of the spine. It is also sometimes known as coccygodynia.

Coccydinia is fairly rare and causes less than 1% of all reported back pain. It is around five times more common in women than in men.

About the coccyx

The coccyx is often referred to as the 'tail bone', because it forms the last remaining part of the human 'tail' (at the end of the spine). It is located just above the cleft in the buttocks, and curves forward so that it points towards the front of the body.

There are three small bones that make up the coccyx. These bones are usually loosely fused together, and the coccyx becomes more flexible in pregnant women to allow them to give birth more easily.

What causes coccydinia?

Many different factors can cause pain and damage to the coccyx, such as childbirth or falling on the base of the spine.

Coccydinia can also be caused by poor posture, or by a repeated activity or motion, such as cycling or rowing.

Aches and pains in the lower part of the back can also result in coccydinia. This is known as secondary coccydinia.

How is coccydinia treated?

In some cases, no treatment is needed for coccydinia and it can be improved by making changes to your lifestyle.

Coccydinia that is more severe can be treated using painkillers, physiotherapy, or in rare cases, surgery.