Tailbone trauma is an injury to the small bone at the lower tip of the spine.
Actual fractures of the tailbone (coccyx) are not common. Tailbone trauma usually involves bruising of the bone or pulling of the ligaments.
Causes
Backward falls onto a hard surface, such as a slippery floor or ice, are the most common cause of this injury.
Symptoms
Bruising on the lower part of the spine
Pain when sitting or putting pressure on the tailbone
Treatment
For tailbone trauma when no spinal cord injury is suspected:
- Relieve pressure on the tailbone by sitting on an inflatable rubber ring or cushions.
- Take acetaminophen for pain.
- Take a stool softener to avoid constipation.
If you suspect injury to the neck or spine, do not attempt to move the person.
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