Concerns About My Tailbone: Is There a Fracture?
I am 33 years old, female, with a height of 5 feet 5 inches and a weight of 110 pounds. I identify as white and have been experiencing discomfort related to my tailbone for several years. My residence is in Chicago, Illinois, and I do not have any significant medical conditions or take any medication at the moment. This issue has persisted for a long time. I have noticed a depression just above my buttocks, and it appears that there is an abnormal protrusion that I believe feels like bone. Sitting can often be uncomfortable, and certain yoga positions aggravate the pain. Occasionally, I also notice discomfort while lying down. Additionally, I feel self-conscious about this condition, which impacts my confidence in my appearance. I am contemplating whether I should consult a healthcare provider for this issue. If it’s advisable, which type of specialist would be the most appropriate to visit?
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 6:30:57 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a persistent and uncomfortable issue regarding your tailbone, and it's understandable to feel self-conscious about it. Given your symptoms, there are several possibilities, including a coccydynia (tailbone pain) or even a fracture, especially if you’ve had any injuries in the past. Here's a structured response:
Main Points:
- Persistent tailbone discomfort warrants evaluation, especially if it's affecting your daily life.
- Identifying a suitable specialist can help address your concerns effectively.
Explanation:
The tailbone, or coccyx, can become painful due to various reasons such as prolonged sitting, previous injuries (even minor ones), or sometimes alignment issues. The depression and protrusion you describe may indicate an underlying issue that could benefit from a professional evaluation. It's important to address this to improve both your physical comfort and confidence.
Next Steps:
- Consider Visiting a Specialist: A physiatrist (a doctor specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation) or an orthopedic surgeon can be good choices as they deal with musculoskeletal issues, including tailbone pain.
- Self-Care at Home:
- Cushioning: Use a cushion when sitting to relieve pressure on the tailbone.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the area for 15-20 minutes can reduce inflammation after prolonged sitting or activities that cause discomfort.
- Gentle Exercises: Try gentle stretching exercises for the hips and lower back, avoiding anything that aggravates the pain. Move slowly and listen to your body.
If discomfort continues or worsens, it’s advisable to seek medical advice promptly. Documenting your experiences and symptoms can help your doctor in assessing your condition. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and seeking help is a positive step forward! Let me know if you have other questions or need more information.
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