Why Does My Tailbone And Hip Hurt? Causes & Solutions

Are you constantly shifting in your seat, trying to find that one position where your tailbone or hip doesn’t scream in discomfort? Perhaps you’ve had that jolt of pain shooting through your hip when you stand after sitting for too long? You’re not alone. Many individuals grapple with the unsettling connection between the tailbone and hip pain, often wondering if one triggers the other. But here’s the silver lining: understanding the link between these pains can be the first step toward effective solutions. Dive in as we unravel the causes, symptoms, and most importantly, the treatments that can offer you much-desired relief.

Understanding the Connection Between Tailbone and Hip

The tailbone, medically termed as the coccyx, is the small triangular bony structure at the base of the vertebral column. It’s the remnant of our ancestral tail and consists of three to five fused vertebrae. Just above the coccyx lies the sacrum, which connects to the iliac bones of the pelvis, forming the sacroiliac joints—thus establishing a direct link to the hips.

The hip, on the other hand, is a ball-and-socket joint where the femur (thigh bone) meets the pelvis. Both the hip and tailbone play pivotal roles in supporting our weight, especially when sitting, and are interconnected via a complex network of ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.

Given this intricate web of connections, it’s not surprising that pain or discomfort in one region can influence the other. For instance, an injury or strain in the hip area can pull on the ligaments connected to the tailbone, causing discomfort. Similarly, a bruised or injured coccyx can impact the way one sits or moves, placing undue stress on the hip joints.

In essence, these two parts, though distinct, function cohesively, and issues in one can easily ripple out to affect the other.

Root Causes of Tailbone and Hip Pain

Understanding the root causes of discomfort can be the key to effective treatment. Both the tailbone and hip are susceptible to various conditions and situations that can lead to pain. Here are the primary culprits:

• Injuries: Traumatic events like falls can lead to fractures or bruises in the coccyx or hip region. Such injuries can result in sharp, immediate pain or a slow-developing discomfort that intensifies over time.
• Prolonged Sitting: Spending extended periods on a hard or unsupportive surface can exert excessive pressure on the tailbone. This, in turn, can lead to inflammation, exacerbating pain in the coccyx and potentially affecting the hips due to altered sitting posture.
• Poor Posture: Chronic slouching or an improper standing stance can misalign the spine and pelvis. This misalignment can strain the muscles and ligaments connecting the tailbone and hip, leading to persistent pain.
• Degenerative Conditions: Osteoarthritis, a condition resulting from wear and tear, can affect the hip joint, causing pain that may radiate towards the tailbone. Similarly, disc problems in the lower back can impact both areas.
• Pregnancy: The body undergoes significant changes during pregnancy, including the release of the hormone relaxin, which allows the pelvic bones to adjust for childbirth. This can lead to increased stress on the tailbone and hip, causing discomfort.
• Other Medical Conditions: Issues like hip labral tears, sacroiliitis, or piriformis syndrome can cause pain in the hip, which might radiate to or be felt in the tailbone region.

Recognizing the root cause is essential for targeted treatment. By addressing the underlying issue, whether it’s adjusting one’s posture or seeking medical intervention for a degenerative condition, individuals can find much-needed relief.

Diagnosing Tailbone and Hip Pain

To pinpoint the exact cause of pain in the tailbone and hip, healthcare professionals employ a range of diagnostic tools. Initial evaluations typically involve a detailed physical examination to assess mobility, pain points, and alignment. Following this, imaging tests such as X-rays and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) are commonly used to provide a clearer view of the bone structure and surrounding tissues. These tests can reveal abnormalities like fractures, degenerative changes, or soft tissue problems. By combining clinical observations with advanced imaging results, physicians can accurately diagnose the source of the discomfort and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

Effective Exercises for Tailbone and Hip Pain Relief

Regularly engaging in exercises that target and strengthen the muscles around the tailbone and hip can significantly alleviate pain and discomfort. Here are some of the most effective exercises tailored for this purpose:

Pelvic Tilts

• How to do it:
  • Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
  • Tighten your abdominal muscles and push your lower back into the floor.
  • Hold for a few seconds and then relax.
  • Repeat 10-15 times.

Hip Flexor Stretch

• How to do it:
  • Begin in a lunge position with one foot forward and the other extended back, toes pointing downwards.
  • Gently push your hips forward until you feel a stretch in the front of the extended hip.
  • Hold for 20-30 seconds and switch sides.
  • Repeat 3-5 times on each side.

Cat-Cow Stretch

• How to do it:
  • Start on all fours in a tabletop position.
  • Arch your back while inhaling (Cat) and then scoop it down while exhaling (Cow).
  • Move between these two positions 10-15 times.

Child’s Pose

• How to do it:
  • Start on all fours.
  • Sit back onto your heels, extending your arms in front and lowering your chest towards the floor.
  • Hold for 20-30 seconds, feeling the stretch in your hips and lower back.

Bridge Pose

• How to do it:
  • Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
  • Lift your hips off the floor by squeezing your glutes and pushing through your heels.
  • Hold for a few seconds and then lower down.
  • Repeat 10-15 times.

Remember, while these exercises can be effective, always consult with a physical therapist or doctor before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you’re experiencing severe pain.

Treatment Options: Beyond Home Remedies

Dealing with tailbone and hip pain can be a strenuous journey, but numerous medical interventions can provide relief. While exercises and home remedies are beneficial first-line approaches, there are instances when professional treatments become necessary. Here’s a breakdown of some available options:

1. Physical Therapy: Under the guidance of a trained physical therapist, patients undergo specific exercises and stretches tailored to their unique pain points and needs.

2. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can alleviate inflammation and pain. In more severe cases, doctors might prescribe stronger painkillers or muscle relaxants.

3. Injections: Corticosteroid injections can be administered directly into the joint or around the tailbone to reduce inflammation and pain.

4. Surgery: In rare cases, when other treatments fail and the pain is debilitating, surgery might be considered. Procedures can include removing a damaged part of the coccyx or addressing specific issues in the hip joint.

5. Alternative Therapies: Treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, or massage therapy can provide relief for some individuals.

How Do I Know If My Tailbone Pain Is Serious?

Tailbone pain, medically known as coccydynia, can often be managed with home remedies and gentle care. However, in some instances, it might be indicative of a more severe underlying condition or injury. Recognizing the warning signs is crucial to avoid complications and get the appropriate care. Here are some signs and symptoms that suggest your tailbone pain might be serious:

• Duration of Pain: If your pain persists for more than a few weeks, even with home treatments, it’s time to see a professional. Chronic pain might be a sign of a more significant issue.
• Increasing Intensity: Mild discomfort that progressively worsens or becomes sharp and severe warrants a doctor’s visit.
• Swelling or Bruising: Any visible swelling or bruising around the tailbone area can indicate a fracture, dislocation, or another injury.
• Numbness or Tingling: If you experience tingling, weakness, or numbness in the buttocks or down the legs, it might suggest nerve involvement or compression.
• Accompanying Symptoms: Fever, unexplained weight loss, or pain that disturbs your sleep patterns are red flags. They can hint at infections or other medical conditions.
• Traumatic Onset: If your pain began after a significant fall, accident, or injury, it’s essential to rule out fractures or other traumatic injuries.
• Functional Limitations: Difficulty sitting, standing, or changing positions because of the pain implies that the issue is impacting your daily functionality and needs addressing.
• Other Symptoms: The presence of blood in stools, pain during bowel movements, or pain during sexual intercourse could relate to conditions other than coccydynia and warrant immediate medical attention.
• Unresponsiveness to Home Remedies: If over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, cushions, or rest aren’t alleviating the pain, it could be more severe than initially thought.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential not to delay seeking medical advice. While tailbone pain is often benign and manageable, it’s always better to be safe and ensure there isn’t a more serious underlying cause.

Tips To Prevent Pain The Tailbone and Hip In Future

Prevention is often the best remedy. By integrating specific habits and precautions into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing tailbone and hip pain in the future. Here’s how:

• Ergonomic Seating: Use ergonomic chairs or cushioned seats, especially if your job involves prolonged sitting.
• Regular Movement: If your work or lifestyle is sedentary, make it a point to stand up, stretch, and walk around every hour.
• Posture Check: Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and ensure your feet are flat on the ground when seated. Be mindful of your posture even when standing or walking.
• Strength and Flexibility: Engage in exercises that strengthen your core, pelvic floor, and hip muscles.
• Weight Management: Carrying extra weight can add undue pressure on your tailbone and hips.
• Safe Practices: Always be cautious during physical activities. If you’re lifting something, use proper techniques to protect your back and hips.
• Protective Gear: If you’re involved in sports or activities with a risk of falling, always wear protective gear. Ensure you have adequate padding around the hip and tailbone areas.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular consultations with a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist can help detect potential problems early and offer guidance on preventive measures.
• Limit High-Impact Activities: If you’ve previously suffered from tailbone or hip pain, consider moderating activities that place excessive strain on these areas, like running on hard surfaces.
• Comfortable Footwear: Wear supportive shoes that cushion your steps and provide good arch support. Avoid wearing high heels for extended periods.

Remember, it’s easier to prevent pain than to treat it. By adopting these strategies and being proactive about your health, you can keep tailbone and hip pain at bay and enjoy a more comfortable, active life.

Conclusion

Tailbone and hip pain can be more than just a minor inconvenience; it can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being. However, understanding its root causes, employing effective home exercises, and adopting preventive measures can play a pivotal role in managing and overcoming the discomfort. Remember, you don’t have to endure the pain silently or alone. If you’re experiencing hip pain, physical therapy for hip pain at PhysioMantra can provide the relief and guidance you need. Embark on your journey towards a pain-free life today: Book an online physical therapy session.