Tailbone Injury
Tailbone trauma
What it is
A tailbone injury affects the small bone at the base of the spine. It often occurs after a fall or a blow to the buttocks and may cause bruising, displacement of the tailbone, or a fracture.
What you can do at home
What to do
- Apply cold for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours during the first 24 to 48 hours.
- Use a cold compress, such as, ice pack, bag of frozen vegetables, or reusable cold pack.
- Always place a cloth between the skin and the cold source.
- After 24 to 48 hours, apply heat for 20 to 30 minutes, 4 times a day.
- To relieve pain, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
To reduce pain when sitting
- Sit with your back leaning slightly forward.
- Use a cushion with an opening in the centre or at the back.
- Avoid sitting for long periods.
To reduce pain during bowel movements
- Take a 15- to 20-minute sitz bath in warm water.
- Prevent constipation by drinking enough water and eating high-fibre foods.
- If needed, see the health advice sheets:
When to seek medical attention
Pain during bowel movements despite following the recommended advice
Pain that persists or does not improve despite following the recommended advice
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Severe pain despite following the recommended advice
Pain that radiates down one leg
Numbness, weakness, or loss of sensation in one leg
Unable to urinate or have a bowel movement
Difficulty controlling urine or bowel movements (involuntary leakage)
Blood in the urine or stool
Unusual vaginal bleeding