Intense Coccyx Pain While Sitting and Standing, Bowel Movement Modifications, and Tingling Sensations in Legs
I am a 24-year-old woman who occasionally uses an albuterol inhaler for my asthma, and I don't have any other medical issues. I have not experienced any injuries or falls. Approximately 8 to 9 months ago, I began to notice significant pain in my tailbone, which has progressively worsened to the extent that sitting has become impossible. Additionally, standing has also become increasingly uncomfortable. Lying flat on my back is quite painful, as is leaning forward when seated. Along with the tailbone discomfort, I'm feeling a tingling sensation in both of my legs and have observed alterations in my bowel habits. I previously had no problems with diarrhea, but for the last three months, I have been facing diarrhea about 90% of the time. Despite trying various remedies, the coccyx pain remains unaffected by adjustments to my posture, applying a heating pad, taking 800mg of ibuprofen, and experimenting with numerous types of cushions. None of these interventions provide any relief. I have scheduled an appointment with a healthcare provider, but the earliest slot available is next month. Therefore, I am seeking advice in this forum. I am contemplating requesting an MRI as a precautionary measure to exclude any serious underlying conditions.
Answers (1)
8/16/2025, 5:21:06 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort and distress due to your coccyx pain and other associated symptoms. Your concerns, particularly around the worsening pain and changes in your bowel habits, are very valid, and I appreciate your proactive approach in seeking relief.
Main Points:
- Persistent coccyx pain can result from various causes, including inflammation, muscle tightness, or referred pain from other areas.
- The tingling in your legs and bowel changes, especially diarrhea, require careful attention as they may indicate a related condition.
- An MRI may be a reasonable request to investigate further given your symptoms, but there are also immediate strategies you can try for relief.
Explanation:
Coccyx (tailbone) pain, known as coccydynia, can become exacerbated by prolonged sitting or positions that put stress on the tailbone. The fact that you're also experiencing tingling in your legs and changes in bowel habits can be concerning, as these could suggest issues involving nerve compression or other underlying conditions.
Next Steps:
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Pain Management:
- While you mentioned that ibuprofen hasn’t helped much, consider alternating with acetaminophen as it might provide different effects.
- Look for a cushion designed specifically for coccyx pain, such as a “donut” or a wedge-shaped cushion that can relieve pressure on the tailbone.
- Continue using a heating pad; applying heat can sometimes reduce muscle tension and ease pain.
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Physical Position Adjustments:
- While waiting for your appointment, try to adjust your sitting posture. When sitting, lean forward slightly to alleviate pressure on the tailbone.
- If possible, practice standing or lying in positions that minimize discomfort until you find relief.
-
Gentle Stretching and Mobility:
- Engage in gentle stretching exercises targeting the lower back and pelvic area to alleviate tightness that may contribute to discomfort.
- Pelvic floor exercises or yoga (specifically gentle poses) can also be beneficial and can help reduce tension in muscles surrounding the coccyx.
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Track Your Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including when pain occurs, bowel patterns, and any activities that exacerbate or relieve your symptoms. This record will be useful for your healthcare provider when you do have your appointment.
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Consider MRI Discussion:
- Prepare to discuss the possibility of an MRI with your healthcare provider, especially considering the leg tingling and bowel changes. While it’s good to be proactive, your provider will assess the necessity based on clinical evaluation.
Conclusion:
Your situation deserves attention, and while you wait for an appointment, focus on both immediate pain management and documenting your symptoms. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if your symptoms worsen or if new troubling symptoms arise, such as numbness, severe weakness, or changes in bladder function. Wishing you relief and hoping for answers soon!
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