Coccyx (tailbone) is the last bone at the bottom of the spine. Any injury or strain to the coccyx, pelvic bones or the surrounding muscles and ligaments can lead to inflammation of the coccyx. This condition is known as coccydynia. The inflammation usually occurs spontaneously in the bony area deep between the buttocks, above the anus. Homeopathic medicines for coccydynia help manage the condition by providing symptomatic relief in pain, tenderness, stiffness, and tightness across the area (near coccyx or bony area deep between the buttocks above the anus.) Hypericum, Rhus Tox, and Ruta are the top homeopathic remedies for coccydynia.

Homeopathic Medicines for Coccydynia

Hypericum – For Pain in Tailbone after a Fall

Hypericum is a natural medicine for coccydynia that works very well in cases where there is an injury from a fall. There is a pain in the spine which grows severe with every passing day, and the patient is unable to sit (except on an air cushion.) It also works in cases where there is a violent pain and inability to walk comfortably after a fall on the coccyx.

Rhus Tox – For Pain in Coccyx after Overexertion

Rhustox is a homeopathic remedy for pain in the coccyx which is aggravated after overexertion. The patient often experiences stiffness and soreness as soon as he attempts to move but gets better when in continuous motion or by warm applications. In general, the patient is quite restless, changing position often.

Ruta Graveleons – For Coccydynia due to a Blow or Fall

Ruta is a natural medicine for coccydynia where there is a bruised pain in the coccyx as a result of a blow or fall with the sensation of soreness. It can be a helpful remedy if the patient experiences constipation after a mechanical injury.

Lachesis – For Continuous Pain in Coccyx

Lachesis is an effective homeopathic medicine for a continuous pain in the coccyx while sitting. There is a characteristic feeling of sitting on something sharp. The pain is drawing and continuous that prevents motion, along with a sharp, agonizing pain when rising from a seat. Neuralgia of coccyx is worse rising in a sitting posture, and the patient must sit still.

Petroleum – For Stiffness of Coccyx

Petroleum is a natural cure for stiffness in the coccyx. People needing this medicine experience uneasiness and stiffness in the small of the back and coccyx (especially towards evening). There is pain and sensitiveness in coccyx while sitting.

Phosphorus – For Pain in Coccyx that Disturbs Motion

Phosphorus is an excellent homeopathic remedy when there is a peculiar sensation in coccyx as if it is ulcerated, which obstructs the movement of the patient followed by painful stiffness of the neck. Pain can get worse on physical exertion, towards evening. It is a specific remedy for coccydynia.

Arnica – For Bruising Pain in Coccyx

Arnica is a homeopathic remedy when the patient experiences the pain of sore, bruised character which occurs upon suddenly rising after stooping, with great soreness of the back. Typically the pain comes on from continuous stooping or hard work or while rising from bed in the morning. Every surface on which the patient lies feels too hard.

Magnesium Phos – For Pain in Coccyx Better by Warmth

Magnesium Phos is a natural medicine for pain in the coccyx that is tearing, lancinating and quick. Pains come at intervals and change place i.e.; they are shifting type of pains which get better by warmth and pressure.

Causes of Coccydynia

Factors that can cause coccydynia are, an injury or fall on the coccyx, during childbirth, a strain on the coccyx, poor posture, being overweight or underweight, age-related wear and tear can also be there. Less common causes may include bony growth on the coccyx, coccyx being too flexible or too rigid, and arthritis. Other causes for tailbone pain which can impersonate coccydynia may include fractured bones (broken tailbone or tailbone fracture), sciatica, sacroiliitis etc.

Symptoms of Coccydynia

Typical symptoms of coccydynia include pain and tenderness, which gets worse on sitting or standing for long hours, sitting on hard surfaces, standing from sitting or vice versa, leaning back while sitting, during intercourse or while defecation (passing stool). Rotation of pelvic bones (muscle movements that assist the rotation) may be painful. Tightness and discomfort can be constant whereas pain may occur during a moment or after pressure. Driving or bending can be very difficult. One may also have bleeding, high temperature or pain away from the coccyx. Person suffering may need to lean against something while sitting for better stability. Usually, a dull achy pain may be present, which may range from mild to severe. The pain improves over a few days or weeks but it may last longer and can hinder the normal functioning in day to day life. Usually, the progression of the disease is uncommon but in rare cases, the condition may advance to a stage where surgery (Coccygectomy) is required, and coccyx needs to be removed permanently. Coccydynia can be prevented only by avoiding injury to the coccyx. Some precautionary measures include avoiding sitting or standing for long hours, using specially designed coccyx cushions or well-padded seat when sitting, doing massage and stretching. Diet needs to be managed if pain worsens by constipation or bowel movements. In such cases, one should increase the fiber content in diet and take ample amount of water.