Coccyx fracture

A coccyx fracture is an injury to the lower part of the spine that most often occurs as a result of falling onto the buttocks or a direct impact to the pelvic area. Due to the anatomical location of the coccyx, this type of injury is accompanied by pain when sitting, standing up, or bending the torso and can significantly limit daily activities.

If a coccyx fracture is suspected, it is important to avoid self-treatment and seek medical attention in a timely manner. At Oxford Medical in Kyiv, a 24/7 traumatology department is available, where patients can undergo a specialist examination and have a coccyx X-ray performed using modern equipment. This makes it possible to accurately determine the nature of the injury and choose an appropriate treatment strategy based on the clinical situation.

If the coccyx is injured, the fracture is most commonly associated with a fall onto the buttocks or a direct impact to the pelvic area. The risk of injury increases under certain circumstances and health conditions.

Main causes include:

• falling onto the buttocks, especially on a hard surface;
• road traffic accidents;
• sports-related and household injuries;
• direct blows to the pelvic area;
• decreased bone density, particularly in older adults.

In some cases, a coccyx fracture may be combined with soft tissue damage or injury to the sacrococcygeal joint, which complicates the course of the trauma and requires medical supervision.

Treatment of a coccyx fracture is aimed at reducing pain, creating conditions for bone healing, and preventing the development of chronic pain syndrome. The treatment strategy is determined by the nature of the injury, the presence of displacement, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s general condition. In most cases, conservative treatment is used.

The main treatment approaches include:

• a gentle regimen with limitation of prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces, and reduced load on the lower spine;
• the use of special orthopedic cushions with a cut-out or central opening to reduce pressure on the coccyx;
• medication therapy to control pain and inflammation, including analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs, and, if necessary, medications to relieve muscle spasm;
• physiotherapy methods prescribed after the acute pain subsides, aimed at improving blood circulation and tissue recovery.

Surgical treatment for a coccyx fracture is used very rarely. Surgical intervention is considered only in cases of significant fragment displacement, the development of complications, or persistent pain syndrome that does not respond to prolonged conservative treatment. Timely medical consultation and adherence to the recommended regimen are crucial for successful recovery and prevention of chronic pain.

In most patients, with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, a coccyx fracture heals without significant complications. However, if pain persists for a long time, the recommended regimen is not followed, or physical load is resumed too early, delayed consequences may occur that affect daily comfort and work capacity.

Possible consequences after a coccyx fracture include:

• chronic pain in the coccyx area that worsens while sitting or changing body position;

• persistent discomfort during prolonged sitting, traveling, or desk work;

• reduced mobility in the lumbosacral region due to muscle and ligament tension;

• development of coccydynia — a chronic pain syndrome in the coccyx area;

• decreased tolerance to physical activity and prolonged staying in one position.

Following medical recommendations, effective pain control, and comprehensive recovery after a coccyx fracture significantly reduce the risk of chronic pain and help avoid long-term functional limitations.

If pain intensifies, general condition worsens sharply, or mobility becomes limited—especially when it is difficult for the patient to reach a medical facility independently—seeking additional medical assistance is advisable. In such cases, a doctor can be called to the patient’s home to perform an examination, assess the condition after a coccyx fracture, and provide recommendations for further treatment or additional diagnostic evaluation.

In most cases, treatment of a coccyx fracture does not require hospitalization and is carried out at home under medical supervision.

The cost of treatment depends on the scope of the initial examination and the duration of medical follow-up. You can review the prices for medical services in Kyiv at the private clinic Oxford Medical on our website.

To receive individual recommendations and a personalized treatment plan, you can schedule a consultation at a convenient time by phone or via the online appointment form on the website.