What Are the Common Causes of Tailbone Pain When Sitting, and How Can It Be Relieved?

Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, can start when the bony tip of your spine is hurt or becomes sore. This pain might happen if you fall and hit your tailbone, or if you sit for too long on a hard chair or bench that puts a lot of pressure on that area. Women may also experience tailbone pain after giving birth because of the strain placed on the coccyx. Other things like poor posture or arthritis can make the pain worse. To relieve tailbone pain, try sitting on a special cushion, such as a donut cushion, that eases pressure on the coccyx. You can also apply warm packs to help relax the muscles, or cold packs to reduce any swelling. Changing your sitting posture, taking breaks from sitting, and doing gentle stretches can also help. Over-the-counter pain relievers might ease discomfort, too. If the pain continues or gets worse, it is a good idea to see a healthcare professional for more advice and treatment options.