Related articles: Coccigodinia
Definition
Coccygodynia is a disorder characterized by pain in the terminal part of the spine, just above the crack between the buttocks (buttocks); this area is called coccyx.
At the base of a coccygodynia there may be several causes: very often this problem is associated with abnormal mobility (for example, it becomes more flexible) or to dislocation of the coccyx, which can trigger a chronic inflammatory process. However, coccygodynia can also be a consequence of a strong impact at the base of the spine, which occurs, for example, when the person falls to the ground on the buttocks beating the coccyx. If the trauma is violent, in fact, it can cause a fracture or a dislocation (ie a displacement from its natural seat) of the coccyx, therefore the bones that make up the structure can become hypermobile, triggering a pathological instability. Other times, coccyx pain is due to repeated strain, poor posture, traumatic events associated with childbirth or surgery in the area.
Other causes that cause local pain include spinal imbalances, compression of nerve roots and infections in the anorectal region. A less common etiology of coccyginia is associated with the onset of a tumor or the expansion of metastatic cancer.
In some cases, coccygodynia develops without obvious pathological changes involving the coccyx (idiopathic coccygodynia).
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Anal pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Muscle pains
- Sore legs
- Stomach ache
- Backache
Further indications
The main symptom of coccyginia is the local pain or burning at the base of the spine (perceived centrally in the lower back and upper gluteal region), where the coccyx is located.
The coccyx pain can be particularly intense when the patient rises from the sitting position or when the region is compressed. Coccygodynia can make it difficult to carry out normal daily activities, such as driving, bending or sitting.
Other symptoms of coccyginia may include persistent back pain, pain in the legs and buttocks, a feeling of discomfort before or during evacuation (often the pain gets worse with constipation and can be alleviated with defecation). If the injury is traumatic, a bruise may be present in the area. Rarely, it is possible to experience pain during sexual intercourse.
Coccygodynia must be framed from the clinical point of view, with the support of an X-ray or an MRI scan. Treatment is variable and always depends on the cause. Coccygodynia usually responds well to rest and therapy with analgesic and anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. Chronic or complicated cases may require other therapeutic approaches (eg corticosteroid injections, surgery etc.).
