Tailbone Injury: How to Minimize Pain and Recover Comfortably
A tailbone injury, also known as a coccyx injury, can be extremely painful and make everyday activities like sitting, standing, or even moving uncomfortable. Whether it’s caused by a fall, prolonged sitting on a hard surface, or childbirth, knowing how to manage the pain and heal properly is crucial. In this blog, we’ll cover what you should do after a tailbone injury, how to sit comfortably, how chiropractic care can help, and when you should seek emergency medical attention.
What Should You Do After a Tailbone Injury?
If you’ve injured your tailbone, taking immediate action can help minimize pain and promote healing. Here are some key steps to follow:
1. Apply Ice Packs
In the first 48 hours, apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the injured area for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours. This helps reduce swelling and numbs the pain.
2. Use a Donut Cushion
Sitting directly on hard surfaces can make the pain worse. A donut-shaped cushion or a wedge cushion relieves pressure from the tailbone, making sitting more comfortable.
3. Avoid Sitting for Long Periods
Prolonged sitting increases pain and pressure on the coccyx. Try to stand up and move around every 30 minutes to prevent stiffness.
4. Use Heat Therapy After a Few Days
After the initial swelling has gone down (typically after 48 hours), switch to a warm compress or heating pad to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow to the injured area.
How Can You Comfortably Move or Sit After a Tailbone Injury?
Simple adjustments in movement and posture can reduce pain and aid healing:
- When Sitting: Lean slightly forward instead of slouching backward. This helps take pressure off your tailbone.
- When Standing Up: Shift your weight to one side and use your arms for support to avoid straining the injured area.
- When Sleeping: Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees or on your stomach to prevent direct pressure on the tailbone.
How Can a Chiropractor Help with Tailbone Pain?
A chiropractor can provide safe, non-invasive treatments to relieve pain and promote healing. Here’s how:
1. Spinal Adjustments
A misaligned spine can add pressure to the tailbone. Chiropractors use gentle spinal adjustments to improve alignment and reduce pain.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy
Chiropractors may perform massage therapy or myofascial release to relieve tension in the surrounding muscles and improve mobility.
3. Postural and Movement Guidance
Your chiropractor will provide personalized posture correction tips and recommend specific stretches or exercises to reduce discomfort and speed up recovery.
4. Cold and Heat Therapy
Professional application of cold therapy can further reduce swelling, while heat therapy can promote healing by relaxing tight muscles.
Should You Visit the Emergency Room After a Tailbone Injury?
Most tailbone injuries heal with self-care and chiropractic treatment, but in some cases, medical attention is necessary. You should visit the emergency room if you experience:
✔ Severe, worsening pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication.
✔ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs.
✔ Loss of bowel or bladder control, which may indicate nerve damage.
✔ Visible bruising or an unusual lump, which could signal a fracture.
If your symptoms are mild to moderate, a chiropractor can help manage your pain and recovery without the need for invasive treatments.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from a tailbone injury takes time and proper care. Using cushions, adjusting your posture, and seeking chiropractic treatment can help relieve pain and speed up healing. If your pain persists or worsens, consulting a chiropractor in Brisbane can be a great step toward a faster, natural recovery.
Need professional help? Contact Chiropractix today for a consultation!
