Coccyx Bone Protrusion: Causes Symptoms and Best Treatment Options

The coccyx consists of 3 to 5 small vertebrae located at the bottom of the spine. It is a crucial part of the body as it serves as an attachment point for various ligaments and muscles, particularly those that support the pelvic floor. Therefore, any issue with the coccyx, such as protrusion or inflammation, can cause pain and discomfort, especially while sitting or moving.In this article, we will discuss the causes of coccyx protrusion, the symptoms that indicate it, the best natural , and how to prevent the problem in the first place.Dalili Medical Keep reading to learn all the details!

Can Coccyx Protrusion Be Treated Permanently?

Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for coccyx protrusion. However, several methods can help relieve pain and improve quality of life, including physical therapy, adjusting sitting positions, and using medical cushions.

Can Coccyx Protrusion Be Completely Prevented?

Not always, but the risk can be reduced by avoiding injuries, maintaining a healthy weight, and strengthening the back and pelvic muscles.

Can Coccyx Protrusion Cause Long-Term Issues?

Yes, if left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain in the coccyx and lower back. However, early diagnosis and preventive measures help reduce the risks.

What Is the Coccyx?

The coccyx is located at the lower end of the spine and is part of the pelvic bones. If it becomes inflamed or injured, it can cause pain and difficulty in sitting or standing for long periods. This issue can arise due to excessive pressure, direct injuries, or certain medical conditions.

Causes of Coccyx Protrusion

Coccyx protrusion can occur for various reasons—some are natural and require no treatment, while others may be due to medical issues that need a doctor's intervention. The main causes include:

1. Rapid Weight Loss

Losing weight quickly is one of the most common causes of coccyx protrusion. This happens because the fat that naturally cushions the coccyx decreases, making it more prominent.

2. Injuries and Trauma

A fall on the back or a strong impact on the coccyx area can lead to dislocation or minor fractures, making the coccyx more prominent than usual. Accidents such as falling down stairs or experiencing strong impacts can cause this issue.

3. Genetic Factors

Some people naturally have a protruding coccyx without any injury, which is due to genetics, as skeletal structures differ from person to person.

4. Hyperlordosis of the Spine

Some individuals have an excessive curvature in the lower spine, which makes the coccyx protrude more. This condition can be hereditary or occur due to injuries or spinal surgeries.

Causes of Coccyx Protrusion in Women After Childbirth

Pregnancy and childbirth are major factors in coccyx protrusion for women due to significant bodily changes.

• Increased weight during pregnancy puts extra pressure on the coccyx.
• Hormonal changes in late pregnancy make ligaments and bones more flexible to facilitate childbirth, which can cause the coccyx to protrude.
• Natural childbirth can put extreme pressure on the coccyx, causing some women to experience severe pain afterward.

How to Manage Coccyx Protrusion?

If the protruding coccyx does not cause pain, it may not require treatment. However, if there is pain or difficulty sitting, consider the following:

• Use a medical cushion when sitting.
• Change positions frequently and avoid sitting for long periods.
• Perform strengthening exercises for the back and pelvic muscles.
• Try physical therapy if pain persists.
• In severe cases, a doctor may recommend steroid injections or, in rare cases, surgery.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If the pain persists for a long time, worsens, or is accompanied by numbness or leg weakness, it is essential to consult an orthopedic specialist or spine doctor to determine the best treatment.

Symptoms of a Coccyx Tumor

In some cases, coccyx protrusion may be due to a tumor, which may present the following symptoms:

• Pain in the lower back.
• Tenderness in the coccyx, making it more prone to fractures.
• Numbness or tingling sensations.
• Weakness in the legs and lower back.
• Bowel or bladder issues, such as incontinence.
• A visible lump at the lower back.

Prevalence of Coccyx Tumors

Chordoma tumors affecting the coccyx are very rare, occurring in only one in a million people annually. These tumors originate from the spine and can extend to the skull base. In contrast, colon and rectal cancer have a 3-7% chance of spreading to bones.

However, some cancers are more likely to metastasize to bones, including:

• Breast cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Lung cancer

These cancers account for 80% of cases where tumors spread to bones.

Symptoms of Coccyx Protrusion

Pain and increased sensitivity in the lower back are the most common symptoms of coccyx protrusion, varying from mild to severe and worsening with prolonged sitting or certain physical activities. Common symptoms include:

• Pain during bowel movements.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Difficulty finding a comfortable sitting position.
• Pain extending to the lower back or buttocks.
• Swelling and inflammation in the coccyx area.
• A hard lump appearing at the lower back above the buttocks.

Effects of Coccyx Protrusion on Health

Coccyx protrusion is not just a cosmetic issue; it can cause pain and muscle spasms in the lower back, affecting movement and daily activities.

1. Impact on Movement and Daily Activities

• Difficulty sitting for extended periods.
• Pain when rising from a seated position.
• Limited mobility due to muscle stiffness.

2. Impact on Physical Activity

• Pain during exercise.
• Difficulty performing movements that engage lower back muscles.
• Symptoms worsening with improper posture or pressure on the coccyx.

How Is Coccyx Pain Diagnosed?

To determine the cause of coccyx pain, the doctor may perform the following tests:

• Medical History: Checking for past injuries.
• Physical Examination: Looking for bruises, infections, or abnormalities.
• X-rays: Imaging the coccyx while sitting and standing to detect changes.
• MRI Scans: Identifying tumors or serious inflammations.
• Rectal Examination: Assessing coccyx mobility (normally about 13 degrees).

Can Stress and Social Pressure Cause Coccyx Protrusion?

Yes, stress and social pressure can indirectly contribute to coccyx protrusion due to their effects on muscles and bones.

1. Psychological Stress:

• Anxiety and excessive stress can cause muscle tension around the coccyx, leading to pain and swelling.

2. Social Stress:

• Sitting for long hours (e.g., office work) increases the risk of coccyx protrusion.
• Emotional stress can affect the body and cause lower back pain.

Treatment Options for Coccyx Pain

1. Physical Therapy and Exercise

• Strengthening back muscles.
• Improving flexibility and posture.
• Reducing muscle stiffness through stretching exercises.

2. Pain Relief Medications

• Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen.
• Muscle relaxants.
• Topical pain-relief creams.

3. Injections

• Cortisone shots to reduce inflammation.
• Local anesthetic injections for temporary relief.
• PRP therapy to promote healing.

4. Surgery (Last Resort)

• Performed in severe cases with chronic pain or tumors.
• May involve partial coccyx removal.

If you experience persistent coccyx pain, consult a doctor for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment 

The appropriate specialist for treating coccyx pain or protrusion is an orthopedic surgeon or a spine specialist. You can also consult a physical therapist if you need exercises or therapy sessions to relieve the pain. In some cases, a neurologist may be involved if there is nerve compression in the area.