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Suggest Treatment For Severe Pain In The Coccyx Area

Posted on Mon, 17 Oct 2016

Question: I've been experiencing pain in my tailbone for about 7 weeks now. We've been driving 3 hours every Friday and Sunday since May and I have my 20 pound dog on my lap. When the pain started, I stopped holding the dog, assuming that was the cause of the discomfort, but the pain hasn't subsided yet. Lately, it's been radiating to the lower part of my buttocks, but doesn't feel like sciatica. I work in technology so I'm in a soft chair most of the day but I do get up and walk around often. I also try to lean forward or side to side as much as possible to relieve the pressure. I normally exercise 4 times a week, but haven't been able to do to the discomfort. I assumed it would eventually heal, maybe 7 weeks isn't long enough. I'm not sure if I should just keep waiting or go see the doctor.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Not advisable to wait on it...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I went through your history with diligence. Based on details provided you could be dealing with traumatic injury of the tail bone - trauma induced by the nature of your job as well as the constant driving through the weekend. Physical examination, per rectal examination and radiological tests are absolutely necessary to confirm / rule out this condition. Therefore I will advice against waiting further. Instead it will be better to see a doctor / orthopedic surgeon.

Until you see the doctor, continue using pain killer. Avoid sitting for longer duration. A doughnut shaped pillow will be helpful.

Hope this answered your question. Let me know if you need clarifications.

regards

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar