Concern Over Possible Chordoma Diagnosis
At 21 years old, I'm seriously worried about the possibility of having a chordoma. For the past two years, I've been dealing with persistent pain in my tailbone. At times, the discomfort eases, but more often it intensifies, particularly when I'm seated. Additionally, I experience radiating pain that extends into my hips, which occasionally flares up due to certain movements. For instance, while bending at work, I triggered significant pain, but it subsided afterward. Could it be possible that I have chordoma lingering undetected for two years, given my ongoing symptoms?
Answers (1)
9/12/2025, 4:20:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand your concerns regarding the persistent pain in your tailbone and the possibility of a chordoma diagnosis. It’s important to acknowledge that while chordomas are a rare type of bone cancer that can occur in the spine, not all tailbone pain is indicative of this condition. Your symptoms may be related to various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, inflammation, or other benign conditions.
Explanation of Potential Causes:
- Musculoskeletal Pain: The discomfort around the tailbone (coccyx) can stem from conditions such as coccydynia, which is inflammation of the tailbone frequently exacerbated by sitting.
- Radiating Pain: This could also be nerve-related or caused by tight muscles in your lower back or hips, particularly if certain movements trigger the pain.
- Chordoma: While making you aware of this possibility, chordomas are quite rare, especially in young adults.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, noting when the pain occurs, its intensity, and activities that trigger it. This will help identify patterns.
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Home Care:
- Adjust Seating: Use a cushioned or specially designed tailbone cushion when seated to alleviate pressure.
- Posture Awareness: Ensure good posture while sitting and standing, as this can reduce strain on your lower back.
- Gentle Stretching: Engage in gentle stretches or physical therapy exercises aimed at improving flexibility and strengthening the surrounding muscles.
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Monitoring: Since your symptoms have persisted for two years, closely monitor any changes in pain intensity or the emergence of new symptoms, such as weakness, numbness, or changes in bowel or bladder habits.
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Find Relief: Consider over-the-counter pain relief options (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) as needed, based on your tolerance and any health considerations.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to seek further evaluation. While I understand this might be worrying, many conditions exist that could be causing your discomfort, and a thorough examination will help clarify your situation. Please take care, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions or updates to share.
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