What Can Cause Tailbone Pain When Sitting Down and Getting Up, and What Are the Treatment Options?

Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, often happens when you sit down or stand up. This pain can be due to a fall or a small injury, or it might come from sitting too long on hard surfaces. The tailbone may become inflamed or irritated when it is pressed repeatedly. To help ease the pain at home, you can use a donut-shaped cushion or a soft pillow when you sit; this takes pressure off your tailbone. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, may help reduce the pain and swelling. Gentle stretches or warm sitz baths can also relax the muscles around the tailbone. If the pain does not get better, your doctor might suggest physical therapy to help strengthen and stretch the muscles in your lower back and pelvic area. In some cases, if the pain is very severe or lasts a long time, further treatments like injections or surgery may be considered. If you experience ongoing or worsening pain, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider to get the proper care.