Why does the “sweet bone” hurt and how to calm it

We have all hit ourselves in the so-called “sweet bone”, that is, in the lower part of the column.

Any drop of “tail” causes a sharp pain to spread throughout the area. It is that we have hit ourselves in the coccyx.

This bone is a vestige of what, hundreds of thousands of years ago, was a tail. Now that we no longer have that body part, there is only that “sweet bone” left to remind us that we were once primates.

When the lower back hurts intensely, it may be that this bone, whose scientific name is coccygodyne, is the one affected. Since it is located in a fairly exposed and unprotected area of ​​the body.

If left untreated, a coccyx injury can continue to worsen, eventually becoming serious. That is why before the symptoms, it is important to consult a specialist.

Symptoms of injury to the coccyx or “sweet bone”

The most common symptoms of some type of injury to the sweet bone are:

  • Pain or tenderness in the lower back.
  • Pain in the upper part of the buttock area.
  • Pain or numbness when sitting.
  • Bruising and swelling around the base of the spine.

Causes of possible injuries in the sweet bone

As we said, the coccyx is a very sensitive bone, which is exposed to many possible damages.

A tear or strain is a common injury to this bone, which can trigger the symptoms described above. In these cases, in addition to inflammation, there is more frequent pain when sitting, especially on a hard surface, since this increases the distension or pressure on the torn ligaments.

There are many ways these injuries can occur, so it’s important to be vigilant for any symptoms. strong falls; blows or kicks between boys, and even childbirth can trigger these discomforts.

How to care for a coccyx injury

Clearly, the presence of symptoms warrants a visit to the doctor. The traumatologist will know how to handle the situation in each case.

But if the visit to the doctor takes a few days, you can start carrying out this home care. They will help reduce pain and keep the injury from getting bigger.

  • Stop any physical activity that causes pain, and in general, get as much rest as possible.
  • When the pain begins to subside, start moving little by little, never go from 0 to 100 because you will make the situation worse.
  • Apply ice to your tailbone for 20 minutes every hour for the first 48 hours. Then 2 to 3 times a day. Of course, try never to put the ice directly on the skin, because it can cause irritation in the area.
  • Avoid sitting for long periods of time, and never sit on hard surfaces.

To avoid lower back pain if you spend a lot of time sitting, you can also use special cushions to avoid more serious injuries. These are high-density foam cushions with a hole in the center that will decrease pressure on the coccyx.

Important: It should be clarified that The Bioguide does not give medical advice or prescribe the use of techniques as a form of treatment for physical or mental problems without the advice of a doctor, either directly or indirectly. In the case of applying any information on this site for this purpose, La Bioguía does not assume responsibility for these acts. The site is intended only to provide information of a general nature to aid in the pursuit of personal growth and development.