Saturday, May 25, 2013

Tailbone trauma

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Coccyx injury


First Aid

For tailbone trauma where no spinal cord injury is suspected:

  • Relieve pressure on the tailbone by sitting on an inflatable rubber ring or cushions.
  • Take acetaminophen for pain.
  • Take a stool softener to avoid constipation.

If you suspect injury to the neck or spine, do not attempt to move the patient.


Do Not

Do NOT attempt to move the patient if you think there may be injury to the spinal cord.


Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if

Call for immediate medical help if:

  • Spinal cord injury is suspected.
  • The patient cannot move.
  • Pain is severe.

Review Date: 07/30/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)