Physiotherapy for Coccydynia

What is coccydynia?

Coccydynia refers to localized pain and tenderness in the coccyx (tailbone) at the base of the spine. In India, common triggers include falls directly onto the buttocks (such as slipping on wet tiled floors or stairs), prolonged commuting on two-wheelers or autorickshaws over uneven roads, prolonged sitting on hard wooden or plastic furniture, and postpartum pelvic strain following vaginal childbirth. Sitting places significant mechanical shear through the sacrococcygeal joint. Physiotherapy addresses coccydynia through seating biomechanics, specialized coccyx cushions that offload the tailbone, gentle mobilisations, piriformis stretching, pelvic floor down-training, and gluteal strengthening.

How physiotherapy helps

• Coccyx cushion and seating posture guidance
• Piriformis and gluteal soft tissue release
• Pelvic floor down-training and relaxation
• Lumbar spine and sacroiliac mobilisation
• Core and pelvic stability exercise routine

Common signs

• Localized aching, throbbing, or sharp pain directly at the tailbone when seated, especially on hard chairs or unpadded stools
• Pain that intensifies when leaning backward while sitting, and eases slightly when leaning forward on the thighs
• A sharp ache when transitioning from sitting to a standing position
• Pain aggravated during bumpy vehicle rides, scooter travel, or prolonged car commutes
• Discomfort or pressure during bowel movements or prolonged floor sitting

Clinical rehabilitation framework

Evidence-informed clinical progression and starter exercise targets for coccydynia.

Frequently asked questions

Related conditions & care

Back PainBack pain is a common reason people see a physiotherapist in India. It can come from muscle strain, long hours of sitting, poor posture, disc problems, or general wear and tear. Most back pain can ease with the right movement and care. Physiotherapy focuses on relieving your current pain while building the strength and habits that can lower the chance of it returning.

SciaticaSciatica is pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, along the path of the sciatic nerve. It is usually caused by irritation or pressure on the nerve, often from the lower back. Physiotherapy can help reduce nerve irritation and ease pain, and rebuilds the movement and strength that protect your back.

Chronic Pelvic PainChronic pelvic pain is persistent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis lasting more than six months. It can involve pelvic floor muscles that have become tight and overactive, though other factors may also contribute. Physiotherapy assesses and treats this with manual therapy, relaxation, and retraining, usually as part of a wider care plan with your doctor. Any intimate or internal assessment happens only with your informed consent and privacy, and you can stop at any time. Internal assessment is not mandatory to book or begin care, and your physiotherapist should explain all options and only proceed with your consent.

Clinical guides & articles for coccydynia

Evidence-informed articles, recovery timelines, and home care advice from our clinical library.