Traumatologist-orthopedist Antonina Zavadskaya from the ORTEKA professional orthopedic network has warned that tailbone pain can stem from past falls, prolonged sitting, or underlying health conditions.
Speaking to news outlet Lenta.ru, Zavadskaya cautioned that pain in the tailbone only appears to be a harmless or temporary issue. She explained that discomfort in the area often masks lingering physical strain or structural changes that require proper attention.
The tailbone, or coccyx, is a small triangular bone structure located at the bottom of the spinal column. It supports weight while a person is seated and anchors several muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the pelvic floor.
Common triggers and sitting posture
Zavadskaya identified physical trauma from a fall as the most frequent trigger of tailbone pain. She noted that even an injury sustained years ago can continue to cause discomfort or flare up long after the initial event.
Beyond acute physical trauma, everyday habits also play a significant role in causing pain. Zavadskaya highlighted prolonged sitting in a single position as a widespread cause, noting that drivers and office workers frequently experience this problem.
Extended periods of static sitting place continuous mechanical stress on the lower spine and pelvic joints. Over time, restricted circulation and poor seating posture can lead to persistent inflammation and muscular tightness around the base of the spine.
Pregnancy and underlying medical conditions
Zavadskaya stated that changes in pelvic muscles and ligaments can also provoke tailbone pain, particularly in women during pregnancy. During pregnancy, a shifting center of gravity combined with natural hormone-induced softening of pelvic ligaments increases strain on the lower back and pelvic region.
Hormones such as relaxin naturally prepare the female body for childbirth by loosening pelvic joints. However, this flexibility can temporarily alter alignment and place extra pressure on the surrounding tissues and the tailbone.
In addition to posture and pregnancy, Zavadskaya warned that more complex medical issues can cause tailbone discomfort. She pointed to conditions such as cysts or localized inflammation as potential underlying causes of the pain.
Warning signs requiring urgent care
Zavadskaya emphasized that certain secondary symptoms serve as major warning signs that demand immediate medical attention. She urged individuals to seek prompt professional care if tailbone pain is accompanied by a high fever, severe swelling, or numbness in the surrounding area.
She added that any disruption to bladder or bowel function alongside tailbone pain represents a critical signal to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Such neurological symptoms can indicate pressure on spinal nerve roots or severe localized infection requiring emergency diagnosis.
Foot health and underfloor heating
Zavadskaya previously issued a warning regarding the impact of underfloor heating on foot health. She explained that heated floors can excessively dry out skin on the soles of the feet, leading to the formation of calluses and corns.
Calluses and corns develop when dry, friction-exposed skin thickens under pressure. Maintaining proper foot hydration and wearing supportive footwear can help protect skin integrity when using heated home flooring.
