The tailbone, otherwise referred to as the coccyx, is prone to pain, discomfort, and injury due to its location. The tailbone is the triangular bone structure and the very bottom of the spinal cord composed of between 3 and 5 segments held together by ligaments and joints. Anytime you sit, you are putting pressure on your tailbone and thus exposing it to potential injury. The most common way the tailbone is injured is through trauma by falling, usually onto a hard surface in the seated position. Also, women are more likely to experience tailbone injuries due to the anatomy of their pelvic bones. Their pelvis tends to be broader than men, exposing more of the tailbone, thus leaving it more vulnerable.  Tailbone injuries are usually slow, long heals, but through cautious rehabilitation with a physical therapist, they can be fortunately manageable! Physical therapy is an excellent treatment option for tailbone injuries, and we’re here to explain exactly how so. We recommend that those in need of physical therapy near Lexington Avenue speak to the experts at H&D Physical Therapy!    

Physical Therapy and Tailbone Injuries

First and foremost, a physical therapist will be able to give you a physical exam and/or take x-ray photographs to figure out what exactly is causing your tailbone discomfort. Once the cause is determined to be either a fracture, bruising, sprain, strain, or some other injury, then a targeted rehabilitation regimen can commence. 

While the physical therapist works on the specific ailment causing tailbone discomfort, they will also include a general focus on reducing inflammation and muscle tension in the area. This generalized approach will aid in the overall healing process and prevent future injury.

Therapists may also look to initiate certain forms of non-invasive or conservative intervention treatments. These treatments can include, but are not limited to:

  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
  • hot baths
  • ring-shaped cushions
  • intrarectal massage and manipulation
  • ganglion impar blocks
  • radiofrequency thermocoagulation
  • psychotherapy
physical therapy near Lexington Avenue

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Tailbone Injuries

At H&D Physical Therapy physical therapy near Lexington Avenue, their experts are specialized in pelvic floor manipulation to aid tailbone pain. The pelvic floor consists of muscles that are located between the tailbone and the pubic bone within the pelvis. They support the bowel and bladder, as well as the uterus and vagina in females. It has been well studied that Pelvic floor physical therapy is a safe and effective method of treating tailbone pain. Pelvic floor treatments vary between physical therapists, but some techniques developed incorporate:

  • Deep breathing from the diaphragm promotes relaxation of the nervous system and a release of tension.
  • Training regimens, hyper-focused on pelvic floor muscle relaxation.

Physical Therapy Stretches and Exercises for Tailbone Injuries

Physical Therapy can utilize stretching and exercising of the pelvic muscles around the tailbone as a means to alleviate muscular imbalances and other awakenings that may be causing discomfort. The tailbone is a complex area of many interconnected tissues, but through specialized procedures of exercise and stretches, tension can be managed. Some sample exercises/stretches you can expect to be shown from a physical therapist for tailbone pain are:

  • Child’s Pose
    • Involves the lengthening of the spine.
    • Targets lower back, hip, and pelvic floor muscles.

How to Child’s Pose:

  1. Begin on your hands and knees.
  2. Spread your knees apart wide.
  3. Keep your big toes touching.
  4. Rest your buttocks on your heels.
  5. Stretch and extend your arms out in front of your head
  6. Hold for 15 seconds.
  7. Rest and repeat three times.
  • Single-leg Hug
    • Focuses on regaining full pelvic range of motion
    • Targets hip-flexor muscles

How to Single-leg Hug:

  1. Lie flat on your back.
  2. Pull one knee up towards your chest.
  3. Extend your other leg out straight.
  4. Hold your knee and gently pull it down.
  5. Hold for 15 seconds.
  6. Rest and repeat three times.

Those are 2 of the simpler exercises a physical therapist might show you. After consulting with a physical therapist, specific exercises and stretches, you may be instructed to do will vary in complexity. Those in need of physical therapy near Lexington Avenue who consult with the experts at H&D Physical Therapy will receive a personalized program of stretches and exercises tailored to their specific tailbone ailments! 

Contact H&D Physical Therapy near Lexington Avenue

Tailbone injuries do not have to linger forever. If you or a loved one is experiencing any tailbone discomfort, make an appointment with H&D Physical Therapy to get a diagnosis and personalized treatment option! Discover how our team of physical therapy experts specializing in tailbone injuries can help you today!