Tailbone Trauma
Alternate Names : Coccyx Injury
What are the treatments for the injury?
Treatment of tailbone trauma may involve any or all of the following measures:
applying ice or cool compresses to the area
eating a diet high in
fiber and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent constipation
sitting in a hot tub, whirlpool, or Jacuzzi tub to decrease pain and swelling
using a rubber, air-filled donut to take the pressure off the tailbone when the person is sitting
using stool softeners to make bowel movements easier and less painful
If the injury is severe, the healthcare provider may advise surgery to remove the damaged section of coccyx. If there is an open wound, the provider may prescribe oral antibiotics to avoid infection.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Pain medicines or antibiotics may cause stomach upset or an allergic reaction.
What happens after treatment for the injury?
Unfortunately, a tailbone injury can take quite a while to heal. Some people do not completely recover for 6 to 8 weeks or even longer. While the injury is healing, it is essential to avoid taking other falls that would injure this area again and lengthen the recovery time. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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