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Tailbone (coccyx)
Tailbone (coccyx)

Tailbone trauma
Definition:
Tailbone trauma is an injury to the small bone at the lower tip of the spine.
Alternative Names:
Coccyx injury
Considerations:

Actual fractures of the tailbone (coccyx) are infrequent. Tailbone trauma usually involves bruising of the bone or pulling of the ligaments.
Causes:

Backward falls onto a hard surface, such as a slippery floor or ice, are the most common cause of this injury.
Symptoms:
  • Pain experienced with sitting or pressure on the tailbone
  • Bruising on the lower portion of the spine


First Aid:

For tailbone trauma where no spinal cord injury is suspected:

  • Give acetaminophen for pain.
  • Relieve pressure on the tailbone by sitting on an inflatable rubber ring or by arranging cushions for comfort.
  • Administer a stool softener to avoid constipation.

If you suspect injury to the neck or spine, do not attempt to move the patient.
Do Not:

Do not attempt to move the patient if there you think there may be injury to the spinal cord.
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:


Prevention:
  • Do not to run on slippery surfaces, such as around a swimming pool.
  • Dress in shoes with good tread or slip-resistant soles, especially in snow or on ice.
Review Date: 10/30/2002
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previous review: Kevin B. Freedman, M.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush-Presbyterian Medical Center, Chicago, IL.Review provided by VeriMed Health Network. (5/25/2001)

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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