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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Tailbone Trauma
DESCRIPTION
The tailbone (or coccyx) is the small bone at the lower end
of the spine. It is usually injured in a fall onto a hard
surface, such as ice or stairs. The pain usually is due to
bruising of the bone or stretching of the ligaments.
Tailbone injuries can be diagnosed by finding tenderness of
the bone located in the upper part of the groove between the
buttocks.
Fractures of the tailbone are rare and they heal fine, so an
x-ray is unnecessary for this injury. Dislocations of the
tailbone are also rare but they need to be put back in place
by a physician.
HOME CARE
A bruised tailbone will usually hurt for 3 to 4 weeks. Give
your child aspirin for 2 or 3 days. Ibuprofen usually gives
more relief for muscle and bone pain than acetaminophen.
Sitting on a large rubber ring or a cushion placed forward
on the chair will take pressure off the tailbone. A heating
pad may also help. Occasionally bowel movements will cause
enough discomfort so that 1 or 2 tablespoons of mineral oil
will temporarily be needed twice a day. Call your physician
if the pain is severe.
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