Tailbone pain can make life uncomfortable at best and unbearable at worst. The tailbone, or coccyx, is at the base of the spine. Many people face lower back pain and it can be due to incorrect posture or fractures in the tailbone.
Even if it is uncomfortable to perform daily activities during the day, It is hard to sleep with tailbone pain at night. This pain can range anywhere from a soreness only when you sit in certain positions to a deep, radiating pain that makes it hard to move around.
No matter how much pain you are experiencing, it will surely cause discomfort while you sleep. In this blog we will discuss the causes and some solutions that can help ease the tailbone pain so that you can sleep well at night.
Causes of Tailbone Pain
This is pain around the coccyx, or tailbone, a little triangular bone at the base of your spine. It is known as the tailbone because it resembles a tail-like structure designed to provide weight-bearing support when we sit down.
There are numerous reasons why you are having tailbone pain; however, before we explore how to treat it, let us first consider what the main causes of this discomfort may be.
1. Slip and fall accidents
It is very common to fall on the back when we slip in the bathroom, or on a wet floor, or from stairs or in other circumstances. A significant fall can lead to bruises, fractures or dislocation of the tailbone.
2. Weight gain
Obesity and weight gain can often be linked to coccyx issues. Excess body weight can increase pressure on the tailbone, causing it to lean backward and result in pain.
3. Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
Sports that demand you to lean back and forth, such as bicycling or rowing, can put strain on the tissue around your tailbone if done frequently.
4. Pregnancy
During the third trimester of pregnancy, hormonal changes can soften the region between the tailbone and sacrum, allowing for easier birthing. In some circumstances, this can result in excessive straining of the muscles and ligaments surrounding the tailbone, causing pain.
5. Prolonged sitting or standing
Sitting for extended periods, especially on a hard surface puts pressure on the tailbone, which can cause pain.
Symptoms Of Coccyx/Tailbone Pain
Coccyx pain is easily identified because it is focused around the tailbone area. It can flare up when doing activities that require sitting, pulling, or pushing.
Here are some of the most typical signs to watch out for:
- Pain after long hours of sitting or standing.
- Aches and pains from the tailbone
- Pain while sitting or standing up.
- Pain with bowel movements
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
Best Sleeping Position for Tailbone Pain
It can be difficult to sleep at night when you have coccyx pain. Some sleeping positions can help to relieve pain, while others may exacerbate it. Here are some tips for promoting good sleeping habits at nighttime.
- Sleeping on side with a pillow between your legs- Place a thin pillow between your knees to keep your hips straight and ease pressure on your tailbone. To keep your spine in proper alignment, make sure the pillow under your head is firm and thick. This position can help prevent your tailbone from becoming hurt or in pain.
- Sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knee- Sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knee is considered as a better option if you are experiencing tailbone pain. Place a wedge pillow under your knees while lying on your back. This can help to ease stress on your tailbone and allow your coccyx to settle into the bed.
Worst Sleeping Position for Tailbone Pain
Sleeping on your stomach is not a good idea if you are having back pain. This is because when you lie on your stomach, a good deal of your body weight is drawn to the center, putting excess pressure on your lower back and coccyx. Sleeping on your stomach also means you’re twisting the top of your spine as you turn your head to one side to breathe. Not so much of a problem if you have a healthy neck, but it’s one to avoid if you don’t.
Best Pillow for Tailbone Pain
A pillow that’s too soft or not voluminous enough can fail to align your neck with the rest of your back and spine – causing further strain to your tailbone. Never underestimate a pillow with the right firmness and thickness.
If you sit for long periods, there are special pillows specially designed for people suffering from tailbone pain. Coccyx Pillows have a curved design that promotes a perfect sitting alignment. This allows the spine and the tailbone to be accurately aligned for weight distribution and promotes improved posture.
Home Remedies for Tailbone Pain
There are some home remedies that you can try to ease out tailbone pain. These are some of the most effective ways to relieve your lower back of any tension that may be behind the coccyx pain:
- Drink warm herbal tea like peppermint tea.
- Apply heat packs or ice packs to the affected area in your lower back.
- Apply warm castor oil around your tailbone area.
- Take an epsom salt bath.
- Try simple stretches for tension relief.
- Use a bolster pillow when sitting or laying down.
Conclusion
Sleeping with tailbone pain can be difficult. You can make it easier by sleeping in a protective position and using extra pillows and cushions to help your body out. You can also try some home remedies before bed to ease out tailbone pain. Applying a heating pad or ice packs in the affected area is the most common and fast remedy you can try.
If you are someone who needs to sit for long periods at the same place, you can try placing a cushion under your butt to ease out tailbone pain. Coccyx pillow minimizes pressure on the spine and creates a straight spine alignment to sit more comfortably.