Pain near the tailbone can disrupt daily life. The coccyx sits at the base of your spinal column. Though it's small, it remains quite vulnerable to possible injury from falls or trauma. If you experience any of these signs of a broken tailbone after an accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to prevent further complications.
Here’s more about what you need to know about the symptoms of a broken tailbone.
Pain During Sitting or Standing
Sharp pain while seated often signals a coccyx injury. Hard surfaces usually make this worse. Some people shift their weight constantly to ease pressure, but the pain persists. Any attempt to stay in one position for too long can add to the discomfort.
Pain may reach the pelvic area, especially if the tailbone took a direct hit. Even a minor fall can lead to this type of damage. These symptoms point to more than just soreness. If the pain flares up with routine movement or refuses to ease, your coccyx may have fractured.
You should not ignore this kind of discomfort.
Swelling Near the Base of the Spine
Swelling at the base of the spine often follows blunt trauma. It creates pressure and restricts your movement. This type of inflammation makes it hard to sit, walk, or even lie flat without sharp discomfort.
You may notice the skin feels warm or sensitive near the tailbone. Simple movements such as bending or twisting could cause pain. This reaction usually signals soft tissue damage around the coccyx. You need a physical exam and possibly imaging to measure the extent of the injury.
Bruising Around the Lower Back
Bruises along the lower back may stretch from the coccyx into nearby tissue. These marks often come with pain. A blow to the tailbone forces blood vessels to rupture under the skin, which leads to dark, visible spots.
Some bruises fade quickly, but deep ones linger and signal more serious damage. If the area stays swollen or tender, your tailbone may have fractured.
Trouble With Bowel Movements
Tailbone damage can affect the lower digestive tract. Pain during bowel movements often points to a deeper issue. Some people strain or feel blocked because of nerve irritation near the coccyx.
Pain
If pain becomes sharp or refuses to ease, a fracture may exist. This pain usually sits deep and flares up with slight pressure. If you cannot sit or shift without sharp discomfort, your tailbone may have cracked or broken. This is part of why many personal injury lawyers advise their clients to seek immediate medical treatment after any serious fall or accident, because not all injuries are immediately apparent.
How Doctors Confirm Broken Tailbone Injuries
Doctors confirm tailbone injuries through physical exams and scans. They press along the lower spine to check for pain or stiffness. If they detect swelling or bruises, they may suggest further imaging.
X-rays help spot bone fractures. Some doctors use MRIs or CT scans to see soft tissue around the coccyx. These tests provide clear views of possible damage. Once confirmed, your doctor may suggest rest, ice packs, and pain relief.
In more severe cases, you may need therapy or follow-up care.
Schedule a Consultation With a Personal Injury Lawyer For Help
If a fall or crash led to your tailbone injury in North Carolina, you may have the right to seek compensation from the person who’s responsible. A lawyer reviews the facts and guides you through the next steps. They’ll help you understand if someone else caused your injury through neglect or recklessness.
Call us today at 1-800-525-7111 for a free case review. There is no cost to speak with our team — and no obligation. Let us help you understand your legal rights and options.
When Justice Counts™, count on the team of Depo-Provera lawyers at Riddle & Riddle.
For more information, please contact Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in North Carolina today. We have twelve convenient locations in North Carolina, including Greenville, Raleigh, Goldsboro, Jacksonville, Kinston, Charlotte, Greensboro, Durham, Fayetteville, Wilmington, Winston-Salem & Garner.
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