A fall to fifth can cause damage to any part of the body, but most often it is the tailbone and soft tissues around it. According to statistics, women, children, and also elderly people go to medical institutions most of all with tailbone injuries. Babies often fall, women have a special pelvic anatomy, and in the elderly, bone density decreases, which contributes to injury.

The tailbone is several vertebrae of the sacrococcygeal junction that have grown together. Muscles and ligaments are attached to the tailbone, it plays a role in the proper functioning of the genitourinary system, fixes the loops of the large intestine. This is its functional purpose. The integrity of the coccygeal region is violated by injuries sustained during falls. Often there are cracks in the coccyx, less often fractures. The tailbone is an undeveloped lower spine, which, when injured, creates a lot of painful sensations and troubles for a person.

Reasons for getting a tailbone fracture:

• Winter time period;
• Some sports (hockey, figure skating);
• Age-related changes in the body;
• Abstinence from food (lack of nutrients);
• Difficult labor;
• Repeated trauma;
• Severe physical impact (RTA).

Falls often cause injury to the coccyx area. All damage to the department that a person can receive is as follows:

• Sprained or ruptured ligaments;
• Injury;
• Dislocation and subluxation;
• Fracture without and with displacement;
• Crack;
• A combination of the above.

Crack or fracture?

Pathological formation - such a definition of a crack in the bone can often be found. A crack is an unfinished fracture. There are three types of coccygeal fissures:

• Vertical. Associated with excessive flexion, extension;
• Horizontal. Appears when falling on the buttocks;
• Oblique. Occurs when dropped at an angle.

Crack formation in the coccygeal region occurs as a result of a blow, fall, bruise, or injury. Regardless of the reason for the appearance of the crack, it brings a sharp painful sensation to the person at the bottom of the spine.

Microcracks in the tailbone can occur during prolonged cycling, as well as when hitting the gluteal region. Often a person cannot independently determine the cause of pain around the coccyx. Only the doctor determines the true source of the unpleasant sensations. However, some symptoms are highlighted that may indicate a diagnosis before a doctor's examination. Damage to the tailbone is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Increasing pain in the sacrum and coccyx (while sitting and lying on the back);
• Difficulty walking
• Redness;
• Swelling and bruising;
• Pain that spreads to the legs;
• Deterioration of the general condition.

It is worth remembering that the symptoms only indicate the area where the injury occurred, but do not give the right to assert the severity of the injury. A crack can be mistaken for a dislocation or a simple bruise. Determination of the degree of a crack can only be carried out by a specialist with the help of special equipment. Diagnosis should be carried out by an experienced physician, as any mistake can lead to complications.

Diagnostics and treatment

Treatment is given after the patient has gone through the diagnostic process. It always includes an external examination, palpation, radiography of the department from three sides. A detailed picture of the deformation that has occurred will be visible on the results of radiography. In case of lack of information, additional studies may be prescribed in the form of tomography, balloonography, sphincterometry. After the diagnosis is established, the attending physician prescribes the necessary treatment and the duration of its course.

Treatment of a person suspected of having a crack in the tailbone should be started even before the doctor arrives. The patient should be laid in such a way that his tailbone and the area around him do not come into contact with anything. It is best to take either a lateral position or lying on your stomach.

A cold heating pad or ice is applied to the tailbone area. If possible, the victim should drink an anesthetic. Only after such preparatory measures, you can safely wait for a doctor. The patient must comply with the condition of bed rest with the possibility of turning onto his back in order to exclude the appearance of bedsores. At this time, a circle is placed under the tailbone.

In order to prevent the crack from turning into a fracture, enemas are performed to improve and simplify bowel movements. They help to reduce the load on the pelvic muscles. The rapid recovery of the patient's condition is facilitated by proper nutrition, the presence in the diet of such products in which there is a lot of calcium, which is necessary for bone tissue. We must not forget about greens rich in vitamins, healthy and nutritious fish, hazelnuts, persimmons (in season) and cabbage. Silicon, which is found in currants, radishes and, of course, in cauliflower, is important in the restoration of the body.

After the acute symptoms of trauma have been eliminated, experts advise trying treatments such as physiotherapy exercises, hirudotherapy or physiotherapy, and massage. The correct appointment of treatment and its complete implementation allow you to forget about the symptoms in a month or two. Effective treatment of a crack in the tailbone is categorically incompatible with taking hot baths, jumping, sharp turns, active sports, warming the bruised area immediately and within a few days after the incident.

• See also:.

Consequences and complications

The tailbone is a part of the spinal column, so any untreated fracture or, for example, a crack can cause serious consequences, diseases of the spine. One of the complications is coccygodynia of post-traumatic genesis. Over time, the load on the healthy parts of the spine will increase, and the condition of the injured part of the coccyx will worsen significantly. In the end, the person will constantly experience unbearable pain. It will be difficult for him to sit, walk, bend over. Any sudden movement will be accompanied by a sharp pain syndrome. Such an advanced pathology requires a longer treatment.

Coccygodynia may appear several months or years after the injury. Therefore, once forgotten blows and falls can be the cause of discomfort today. In each case, there may be complications. You cannot ignore the treatment, you need to pay attention to the very first symptoms and consult a qualified doctor. Only timely diagnosis and treatment will prevent you from learning about the sad consequences of injuries.

Excellent prevention of bruises and cracks is the ability to fall correctly. If a person is out of balance, do not fall on their back. The correct action is to group up and roll onto your back. Some people fall quite often, it is important for them to train in the correct fall at home. Dietary supplements with calcium and vitamin D help to strengthen cartilage and bones. It will hardly help to avoid bruises and falls, but it will be a good prevention of possible complications. For the purpose of prevention, it is important to observe safety precautions when riding horses, vehicles that can cause a concussion of the body, while playing sports.

Experts recommend strengthening the muscles of the legs and back, avoiding bruises and falls. A balanced regular diet with a sufficient mass of nutrients and minerals for the body can also be called a preventive measure.

With a fracture of the tailbone, the integrity of the bone in this area is violated due to injury or. Most often, the violation occurs as a result of a fall on the buttocks or a blow to the coccyx. Fracture of the tailbone is manifested by pain, impaired motor activity, increased muscle tone, swelling, etc.

To make a diagnosis, a visual examination is carried out, as well as instrumental studies. As a rule, conservative methods are used to treat the fracture. Surgical intervention is necessary for a fracture with displacement, when the bone fragments cannot be compared and there is prolonged severe pain.

Basic information

The tailbone is located at the very bottom of the spinal column, it consists of 3 - 5 vertebrae, which have grown together. The bone has a coracoid shape, its base is directed upward, and the upper part is directed downward and forward. Its first largest vertebra is connected to the sacrum by the coccygeal horns to form the sacrococcygeal joint.

In children, a cartilaginous lining is placed between the vertebrae of the coccyx, so this area is mobile. Over time, these elements fusion and the formation of a single bone occurs.

Reference. The coccyx is an almost immobile area. Movements in it appear in women during childbirth, then the bone deviates back, expanding the birth canal.

The functions of the coccygeal bone are very important, muscles and ligaments are attached to it, which are necessary for the normal functioning of the organs of the genitourinary system, the most distant parts of the colon. In addition, bundles of the gluteus maximus muscle are attached to its outer surface, which is involved in hip extension. The tailbone reduces the load on the pelvic bones when the trunk is tilted back. This area is surrounded by nerve fibers, so there is pain when it is damaged.

In most cases, tailbone injuries are diagnosed in patients 33 - 45 years old (more often in men). Children and adolescents usually suffer from dislocation of the coccygeal vertebrae.

Often, a tailbone fracture is combined with the following injuries:

• dislocation fracture (often combined with a fracture of the pelvic bones);
• ligament rupture.

In most cases, the following injuries of the lower spine are observed:

• Injury only to the vertebrae of the coccygeal bone.
• Damage to one or more elements, in which the integrity of the intervertebral connections above or below the injured vertebrae is impaired.
• Fracture of the coccygeal bone, in which nerve fibers are torn or torn.
• Combined fracture of the tailbone and other segments of the spinal column.

More often, a closed fracture appears, in which the integrity of the skin over the injured area is not violated.

The weakest area that is usually damaged is the ossified sacrococcygeal joint. Synchondrosis (connections between the vertebrae of the coccyx) are also often damaged.

The most severe are comminuted fractures, in which the intervertebral disc is destroyed, and its fragments move.

Isolated trauma does not damage the spinal cord, but increases the risk of pinching or rupture of the cauda equina (spinal nerve roots).

According to the severity, an uncomplicated and complicated tailbone fracture is distinguished. The latter type of injury is accompanied by damage to the nervous structures.

Depending on the mechanism of development, traumatic and pathological fractures are distinguished. The first occurs after an injury, and the second is associated with diseases of the bone tissue, for example, osteoporosis (increased fragility of bone tissue), bone tuberculosis, osteomyelitis (purulent-necrotic process in the bones and bone marrow), neoplasms. Pathological fractures appear after minimal exposure.

An old fracture is an injury that has been more than 4 weeks old. For comparison, a fresh injury is considered if no more than 3 weeks have passed since the fracture.

Fracture is called a tailbone fracture, in which the bones do not heal after a month. A false joint is a condition in which there is no ossification for 2 to 3 months.

Causes of injury

In most cases, the injury occurs after a fall on the buttocks. Less commonly, the lower part of the spine is injured after being hit with a blunt object. It is possible to break the coccygeal bone during childbirth, but this rarely happens. This usually happens if the baby is large, and the woman in labor has a narrow pelvis, if the fetus is incorrectly positioned, or if the pregnant woman has injured the bone in the break.

Falling on the buttocks is one of the most common causes of a fracture

According to statistics, the tailbone is most often injured in such situations:

• When falling from a height in a domestic environment or at work, if a person violates safety precautions. In winter, on ice or on a wet floor.
• After jumping into a pond with a shallow depth.
• After hitting the coccyx with a blunt heavy object.

Reference. With osteoporosis and other diseases of the bone tissue, a person can injure the lower spine during a sharp turn, tilt, shaking while riding a vehicle, bicycle, etc.

People who are intoxicated are often injured.

Damage to the lower spine is possible after a direct impact in such cases:

• Major accident at a technical facility.
• Natural disasters such as earthquakes.
• Household conflicts.
• Power sports, group games. In most cases, wrestlers, football players, hockey players, etc. are injured.

You can also injure the tailbone during an accident.

Symptoms

A true fracture of the coccygeal bone, when small bony processes are damaged, is extremely rare. More often, the ligaments of the sacrococcygeal junction are damaged or the vertebrae of the lower spine are displaced.

Symptoms of a tailbone fracture:

• sharp pain in the lower back;
• pathological mobility, which is accompanied by crunching of bones;
• increased muscle tone in the damaged area;
• redness and swelling over the tailbone.

It is difficult for the victim to move his legs, and when sitting and standing up, the pain syndrome becomes more pronounced.

A broken tailbone is a sharp, piercing pain that often spreads to surrounding tissue. Over time, it becomes aching, but worsens when you try to empty the intestines or sit down. The discomfort often increases with walking.

Signs of damage to the cauda equina after a fracture of the coccygeal bone:

• pain in the lower back, which radiates to the lower extremities;
• violation of sensitivity in the coccyx, sacrum, groin;
• feeling of numbness, tingling of the legs;
• in the worst case, the sensitivity of the lower extremities completely disappears;
• weakening of the muscles below the coccyx, complete paralysis is possible;
• violation of defecation, which is manifested by constipation, impaired control over the process of bowel movement, impaired sensitivity of the anus;
• disorders of the functionality of the bladder, then there is ischuria (urinary retention), decreased sensitivity of the sphincter of the urethra.

With osteoporosis, the likelihood of combined fractures increases, then the symptoms are varied.

With a fractured fracture, pain, nausea, profuse vomiting that does not bring relief, delay in the passage of gas and stools appear.

Reference. A fracture of the coccygeal bone differs from a bruise in that in the first case there is a bruise, and in the second it is not. In case of violation of the integrity of the bone, a piercing pain appears, and with a bruise, its intensity changes. A tailbone fracture is characterized by an increase in pain during coughing, sneezing, sitting, but not when bruised.

A compression fracture of the tailbone may have delayed symptoms that appear after several months. Then a crack appears on the bone, and then, with minimal physical exertion, the bone fragment leaves. Then pain and swelling occurs.

The consequences of trauma

Complications cause tailbone fractures with displacement of bone fragments:

• The spinal cord is damaged. Then the victim feels constant pain during movement (especially when trying to sit down).
• Migraine-like headaches develop, which are difficult to get rid of even after taking analgesics.
• Complications during childbirth. If a pregnant woman has previously suffered a tailbone fracture, then during its physiological displacement she will feel severe pain. It is necessary to treat such injuries at the stage of pregnancy planning.
• Callus formation (gross growth) at the fracture site. Then there is chronic pain in the pelvis, which increases when the person is sitting or trying to stand up. Salts can be deposited at the site of the fracture.
• Cococigodynia - persistent pain in the area of ​​the coccygeal bone. Most often women suffer from it. The pain syndrome becomes more pronounced when the patient is sitting, walking or trying to empty the intestines. Coccygodynia is caused by damage to the nerves that surround the tailbone or periosteum.
• The functionality of the genitourinary organs or the colon is impaired if the bone is displaced forward. Severe pain appears when sitting, especially with a slight deviation of the back back.
• A cyst is formed with a channel outward between the buttocks.

These consequences provoke constant painful sensations that reduce the quality of life and prevent a person from doing their usual activities.

Diagnostics

If you suspect that the tailbone is broken, then urgently go to a traumatologist or vertebrologist. If you have neurological symptoms, you will need the help of a neurologist.

The diagnosis of coccygeal injuries begins with the collection of anamnesis. The doctor asks the patient about whether he fell on the buttocks, received a blow to the lower back, or whether he suffers from bone diseases.

Then a visual examination is carried out, during which you can notice that the victim is trying not to move the pelvis or to sit to avoid pain. During palpation, muscle tension around the bone is felt, edema is observed, the patient feels pain.

A rectal or vaginal examination is done to confirm or rule out a displaced fracture. During the procedure, the doctor can identify bone fragments that rub against each other, due to which a characteristic crunch is heard. These tests help determine abnormal lower spine mobility and pain.

To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes the following instrumental studies:

• X-ray (front and side projection). This diagnostic method does not always allow you to notice a fracture of the coccygeal bone, since it is hidden under an array of soft tissues. It is especially difficult to identify an injury in the area of ​​the sacrococcygeal junction.
• Computed tomography is a more informative study, which is prescribed if the radiography did not reveal a fracture, but the specialist still had doubts. CT scans the lower back in layers to reveal even small cracks in the tailbone.
• Magnetic resonance imaging is an even more effective diagnostic method that allows you to study soft tissues in detail. Usually, MRI is done to assess the condition of nerve fibers that are damaged by bone fragments.
• EFI (electrophysiological study) of the neuromuscular apparatus. This is a comprehensive diagnosis, which is prescribed to assess the condition of nerve branches, identify muscle damage.
• Myelography is a radiopaque study that allows you to visually assess the state of the spinal cord, its roots and cerebrospinal fluid pathways.

To distinguish a tailbone fracture from sacral injury, coccyx fracture and rupture of the sacrococcygeal joint, differential diagnosis is performed. However, the tactics of treating these pathologies are similar.

Treatment

Everyone should know how to provide first aid if a tailbone fracture occurs:

• Call an ambulance.
• Calm down the victim, do not let him move.
• Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
• To relieve severe pain, give him a pain reliever, such as Ketanol, Baralgin, Diclofenac. However, doctors recommend doing this as a last resort, since pain is an important diagnostic sign.

Treatment for a tailbone fracture depends on the severity of the injury. In case of slight damage, outpatient treatment is carried out, which takes place according to the following plan:

• The patient should stay in bed for 2 to 3 weeks. It is better to lie on your side. An orthopedic pillow is used to provide comfort and avoid pressure sores. This device reduces pressure on the damaged area, relieves painful sensations. Usually, a pillow is used when you need to sit down.
• With intense pain, analgesics or NSAIDs are used. However, it is forbidden to take them for a long time.
• If the fracture is closed and the integrity of the skin in the damaged area is not compromised, then pain relievers in the form of ointments or rectal suppositories can be used.
• If defecation is difficult, laxatives are prescribed.
• To prevent constipation and displacement of bone fragments, a diet is prescribed. The patient should replenish the diet with foods rich in calcium, silicon. It is recommended to eat cereals, soups, mashed potatoes, drink plenty of liquid. For the same purpose, cleansing enemas are carried out at home.

If necessary, a special splint is applied to the victim.

The question of what to do with a displaced tailbone fracture is quite relevant. In this case, inpatient treatment is carried out.

Therapeutic tactics for a fracture with displacement of fragments of the coccyx:

• The damaged area is anesthetized with a solution of novocaine, and bone fragments are compared through the rectum.
• The victim observes bed rest, a rubber pillow is placed under the tailbone.
• To relieve severe pain, novocaine blockade is used. If the pain syndrome is moderate, then anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed.
• The patient is prescribed gentle physical education, which will speed up blood circulation, metabolic processes, and improve the general condition. The load on the lower spine is limited.
• If necessary, antibacterial agents are prescribed, as well as calcium preparations.
• The lower back is secured with a tight bandage.
• In case of violation of intestinal patency, enemas are prescribed.

Important. During the comparison of bone fragments, the traumatologist must act carefully and gently so as not to damage the mucous membrane of the colon.

After 10 days, the complex therapy is complemented by massage and thermal treatments.

If the fracture is caused by diseases of the bone tissue, then, in addition to the above measures, treatment of the underlying pathology, for example, osteoporosis, is carried out.

Most often, the reduction (juxtaposition) of the fragments through the rectum is successful. But if the fragments are not held in the correct position, then an operation is assigned. Surgery will help correct the deformity. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the distal (extreme) part of the tailbone, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

If the bone fragments of the tailbone are not held in the correct position, then an operation is performed to remove the extreme part of the bone

The operation is necessary when the pelvic organs are compressed by the fused bones, then their functionality is impaired. As a rule, this happens if fragments of the coccygeal bone have grown together incorrectly. This is a rather complicated procedure, in which there is a risk of damage to the rectum.

To avoid complications, the patient after surgery must be in bed for 10 days. In addition, he must follow a special diet.

If the pain syndrome bothers for a long time, then the doctors decide on the removal of the damaged tailbone. In the postoperative period, the likelihood of the development of purulent processes increases, the appearance of abnormal channels in the body cavity.

After surgical treatment, the patient is prescribed pain relievers, antibiotics to prevent the development of infection. Rehabilitation activities are complemented by therapeutic exercises, massage, physiotherapeutic procedures (electrophoresis with novocaine, paraffin-ozokerite applications, UHF), acupuncture, hirudotherapy (leech therapy).

With the help of x-rays, doctors will assess how the fragments are healed, and can also detect displacement if it appears. It is especially important to control this process in case of pathological fractures.

Crack in the tailbone after a fall

A fissure in the tailbone is an injury in which the integrity of the bone is compromised, but not completely.

Reference. If cracks in the bone tissue appear frequently, then this may indicate increased bone fragility, which is characteristic of osteoporosis. In a child under 5 years of age, frequent cracks are a sign of rickets.

There are such types of cracks:

• Vertical - occurs with excessive flexion or extension.
• Horizontal - appears after falling on the buttocks.
• Oblique - is a consequence of falling at an angle.

After a whiplash external impact, a longitudinal crack occurs. Bone integrity can be compromised due to excessive weight, passive lifestyle, and regular constipation. Then the bodies of the coccyx are displaced, their tissues become more fragile and with a slight impact (a sharp landing on a hard surface), a crack appears.

Symptoms of a crack in the tailbone:

• Low back pain that worsens when sitting or lying down.
• Difficulty getting around.
• Redness, swelling, bruising.
• Painful sensations radiate to the legs.

A crack in the tailbone is treated with conservative methods. The patient should be in bed, eat right. To relieve pain, analgesics are used in the form of tablets, ointments, and creams. After the elimination of the pain syndrome, exercise therapy, physiotherapy, massage are prescribed. Subject to the doctor's recommendations, the crack will heal in 4 to 8 weeks.

How long does a tailbone fracture heal

The victims are interested in how long the fracture heals. There is no unequivocal answer to this question, much depends on the severity of the injury, the length of time to see a doctor, the patient's age and the literacy of therapy. To speed up the process, the victim must strictly follow the doctor's recommendations during treatment and rehabilitation.

The first steps can be taken as early as about 4 weeks after the injury. But if the fracture is light and heals quickly, which is proved by instrumental studies, then it will be possible to walk in 2 weeks.

The period of coccyx bone fusion ranges from 4 weeks to 6 months or more. The recovery period takes approximately 3 months. In general, treatment and rehabilitation can take about a year, and sometimes more. For example, with a slight fracture of the tailbone, the bones grow together for about 6 months, and with a displacement injury - up to 1 year.

Treatment of elderly patients is delayed, as their bones are more fragile and not as elastic as those of younger people.

The most important

A tailbone fracture should be treated as early as possible, then the bones will heal faster. Displacement injuries are more dangerous, they are accompanied by severe pain, neurological disorders, and therefore more difficult to treat. In case of mild fracture, conservative methods are used: bed rest, analgesics, diet, exercise therapy, physiotherapy, etc. In case of comminuted damage, bone fragments are compared through the rectum. If after this the fragments of the tailbone are not held in the correct position, then an operation is prescribed. Surgical intervention is indispensable if neurological disorders are present, the work of the pelvic organs is disrupted, or the pain does not leave for a long time. After the main treatment, rehabilitation is carried out. It is important to follow the doctor's recommendations at all stages of therapy, then the bones will grow together faster and it will be possible to return to a full life.

Falling backwards on the buttocks or landing on the heels while jumping from a height can injure the coccyx. During the examination, it can be revealed that a crack has appeared in the tailbone. After such an injury, it is necessary to change the lifestyle; it is possible to speed up the healing process of tissues by following all the recommendations of doctors.

Fracture of the tailbone from its crack is practically the same in symptoms. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by making an X-ray... With a crack, it will be seen that the organic integrity of the bone is broken, but there are no fragments.

After a bruise of the tailbone, as a result of which it cracked, the patient develops the following symptoms:

• growing pain in the lower part of the spine, in which it is difficult to lie, walk, sit;
• the appearance of swelling, bruising, redness at the site of the impact (occurs several hours after the injury);
• lack of bowel movements for several days after injury.

When trying to sit down, stand up, bend over, a person may feel a sharp pain.

In some patients, other signs of a crack in the coccyx also appear: within a few hours after the injury, the temperature may rise, and chills may appear. This condition is typical for cases when the soft tissues that surround the rectum are involved in the aseptic inflammatory process. Also, as a result of a bruise, it may occur.

Women and the elderly are more likely to develop tailbone injuries. In patients over 60-70 years old, bone density changes due to the leaching of calcium, even a minor blow can cause cracks. In women, the sacral spine is more mobile than in men, so the likelihood of injury to the tailbone is higher.

Types of injuries

Traumatologists distinguish several types of cracks in the coccygeal bone:

• vertical - appears with an increased force of impact in the process of flexion and extension of the muscles of the sacral spine;
• horizontal - occurs when falling on the buttocks;
• oblique - occurs with an oblique blow of the coccyx.

Injuries to the gluteal region do not always provoke the appearance of a crack in the coccyx; symptoms characteristic of this injury can also occur with a fracture or dislocation of the coccygeal bone.

An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a traumatologist after evaluating the results of an X-ray. You can distinguish a crack from a fracture if you know that the cracks never reach from one edge of the bone to the other (more about). Shocks or falls are not always the cause of cracking. It can appear with complicated childbirth or as a result of age-related changes associated with a decrease in bone density.

How to tell if it's a fracture, a bruise, or a crack

All injuries of the sacral spine are accompanied by severe pain. With a fracture of the sacrum, the patient develops a hematoma, severe edema. When walking, there is a squeak, which doctors call crepitus. The reason for its appearance is the friction of bone fragments against each other.

With bruises, the pain subsides quickly. This type of injury does not threaten any complications in the future.

Cracks in the tailbone after a fall provoke the appearance of a pronounced pain syndrome, edema of the surrounding soft tissues. Even without treatment, some patients improve within a few days. But the danger of such injuries is that in the future a person with a tailbone injury will suffer from pain in the sacral area, perineum. In women, discomfort is often observed during sexual intercourse.

Therefore, in case of spinal injuries, one cannot wait until the condition is normalized, you need to see a doctor. The doctor will examine the affected area, and if there is a suspicion of a crack or fracture, send it for an x-ray. If it is difficult to establish the nature of the damage from the obtained X-ray, then the traumatologist may recommend an MRI or CT scan.

What to do before the ambulance arrives

If the sacral region is bruised as a result of a fall or injury with a blunt object, it is advisable to lie on your stomach or side. It is undesirable for the damaged area to come into contact with a hard surface. Cold must be applied to the projection of the tailbone.

It is possible to reduce the pain syndrome, the appearance of which is caused by a crack in the tailbone, with the help of analgesics. No need to try, only a doctor can do it.

How to treat

Beginning therapy with a crack in the coccygeal bone should only be after an accurate diagnosis. For patients with such an injury, doctors recommend bed rest. You should lie on your stomach or on your sides. To sit on your back, place a donut-shaped pillow under your buttocks. The recommended duration of bed rest is at least 10 days.

Healing will go faster if, during the treatment of a tailbone fissure, the likelihood of displacement of bones or the appearance of new injuries to the sacral region is minimized. But you should not count on a quick recovery, improvements begin to appear no earlier than 2 weeks after the injury.

Medication

Patients who have a crack in the tailbone due to trauma are advised to use anti-inflammatory pain relievers. Most often, Diclofenac, Meloxicam, Ketoprofen are prescribed. For severe pain, Tramadol may be prescribed. Some patients periodically do novocaine blockades, but they are recommended to be repeated no more than 1 time in 3 days.

You can use mild laxatives to ease the bowel movement and minimize pain during bowel movements. Some advise to do enemas, this allows you to minimize the load on the pelvic floor muscles and sphincter and prevent further separation of the crack. With attempts, there is a risk of complete.

To accelerate the restoration of bone integrity, it is recommended to take calcium supplements in combination with vitamin D3.

Ointments

In the absence of damage to the skin, pain and swelling can be reduced by applying topical anti-inflammatory medicines to the affected area. The doctor may recommend using Fastum gel, Diclofenac ointment, Fanigan Fast gel.

Do I need an operation

Patients who have compromised the integrity of the coccygeal bone are not prescribed surgical treatment. With a timely visit to the doctor and the implementation of all recommendations, damaged tissues are restored on their own.

The operation may be necessary only for patients with a fracture, in whom the coccyx segments have begun to heal incorrectly.

Food

• calcium-rich foods - cottage cheese, cheese, kefir, butter;
• fruits and vegetables containing silicon to improve the absorption of calcium - broccoli, peas, cauliflower, persimmons, currants, radishes, beans;
• nuts, greens;
• sea ​​and freshwater fish;
• wholemeal bread with the addition of bran.

The diet is formed so that the maximum amount of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals enters the body with food. To normalize bowel function and prevent constipation, you must drink enough water.

ethnoscience

Fans of alternative methods of treatment recommend that patients with a tailbone crack should lubricate the skin over the tailbone area with iodine 2-3 times a week in the evening. After that, the sacrum area must be wrapped up and go to bed. After 1.5-2 months of such procedures, the pain goes away.

Lotions on the tailbone from Vishnevsky's ointment have proven themselves well. She needs to generously lubricate a sponge or rag, apply to the problem area and cover with cellophane on top. It will take 3-5 days to reduce swelling and eliminate discomfort.

To get rid of pain after bruises, it is advised to use a tincture prepared from the following mixture:

• 300 ml of medical alcohol;
• 10 tablets of Analgin, crushed to a powdery state;
• 10 ml of camphor alcohol;
• 10 ml of iodine.

The tincture is prepared for 3 weeks in a dark place. After a few days of rubbing it into the problem area, the pain disappears.

If, on the advice of traditional healers, you use a resin ointment, then the crack will heal faster. To prepare a medicinal product, you must take:

• 20 g of resin;
• medium-sized onion, pre-chopped in a meat grinder;
• 50 g olive oil;
• 15 g of copper sulfate.

These components must be mixed and heated in a saucepan over low heat. Warm ointment is applied to the tailbone area. It may cause a slight burning sensation.

Rehabilitation

10-12 days after the injury, a callus forms on the tailbone. As soon as it begins to form, traumatologists recommend starting rehabilitation. It should be aimed at accelerating the restoration of bone tissue and increasing the physiological tone of the ligaments and pelvic muscles. Sometimes it can occur.

The doctor may prescribe:

• reflexology- starts the process of bone tissue healing;
• massage, osteopathy- improves microcirculation of lymph and blood in the problem area;
• - improves the condition of ligaments, muscles, tendons;
• hirudotherapy - restores blood flow.

As an auxiliary method of treatment, it is recommended to use physiotherapy, under its action the bone grows together faster. Most often, UHF, electrophoresis, procedures with the Darsonval apparatus are prescribed. To prevent the development of complications, you need to sleep on your stomach during this period.

Orthopedic pillow

An orthopedic pillow can help reduce pain and speed up the healing process. When using this device, the tailbone does not come into contact with hard surfaces, so discomfort is minimized.

Prophylaxis

It is possible to minimize the risk of fractures and the appearance of cracks in the tailbone if you follow the recommendations of doctors. For the prevention of bone fractures, it is advised:

• exclude fatty foods, canned food from the diet;
• train the muscles of the legs, pelvis, back;
• strengthen bones by taking calcium and vitamin D supplements;
• be careful when riding horses, cycling, walking on slippery roads;
• at home, on a soft rug or mat, train to fall correctly;
• avoid traumatic activities.

If there is discomfort in the tailbone area, it is better to see a doctor. People with osteoporosis do not need strong blows to form a fracture or crack — fragile bones can be damaged with minimal impact.

Consequences and complications

If you feel pain in the coccygeal region, you need to consult a traumatologist. Even minor cracks without adherence to the regime and treatment can become fractures. The condition may worsen with physical exertion, sitting, trying to use the toilet.

Cracks are the cause of coccygodynia - a pronounced pain syndrome in the anorectal zone. The pain occurs when activating in the place where the coccygeal bone cracked. With the development of coccygodynia, blood vessels spasm, sweating increases, the skin turns pale. The patient's nervousness increases, a depressive state develops.

Among the complications of coccygeal fissure are the following:

• osteomyelitis is an infectious lesion of the bones, antibiotic therapy is prescribed for its treatment, this complication can even lead to disability;
• numbness, paresis, paralysis of the legs;
• the development of spastic or functional constipation due to disruption of the large intestine;
• the appearance of problems with the functioning of the bladder sphincter;
• violation of posture due to the redistribution of the load;
• omission of internal organs as a result of weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.

Any injury to the tailbone can cause long-term effects. If they refuse treatment and ignore the need for rehabilitation, patients can suffer from pain for the rest of their lives. The most common cause of their appearance is the subluxation of the appendix, which has arisen due to weakened muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the pelvic region.

There is no such person in the world who has never been somehow traumatized. Some people do not even fully know the concept of trauma, so they do not pay attention to many things, not thinking about the consequences of such negligence towards themselves and their health later. Here is one of these traumatized therecrack in the tailbone, which will entail serious consequences.

The frequency of falls on the softest point in our body is probably the highest. And in half of the cases, such falls lead to not the most pleasant pictures, because often this leads to trauma. These injuries can be divided into several types: sprains, bruises, dislocations, subluxations, cracks, fractures.

A crack in the tailbone is considered a severe injury, as it can lead to a complete fracture. It creates unpleasant sensations, but it is very difficult to identify it on its own, so you have to turn to specialists who prescribe the necessary examinations in order to make a diagnosis, prescribe treatment.

There are three types of cracks:

• vertical;
• horizontal;
• oblique.

Fissure of the tailbone: symptoms

Tailbone fissure or a microcrack will almost immediately manifest itself as a sharp pain in the coccyx area. Not everyone can understand the cause of lower back pain. When this happens due to a strong fall or blow, it is understandable, but if it happened by accident, and then pains appear, you should consult a doctor, he will examine and tell you the diagnosis.

But there are a number of symptoms that can help suggest a diagnosis before seeing a doctor. When walking, in a sitting position, lying on the back in the area that has been injured, pain intensifies, because of this, walking is impaired, it becomes heavier, hyperemia of the skin, edema, hematomas, pain that radiates to the lower extremities, and fever also appears.

First aid

Before the victim is given symptomatic treatment, first aid should be provided to alleviate his condition. At the scene of the accident, the victim must be placed so as not to create unnecessary pressure, to restrict the movement of the victim.

You need to choose a place, lay it either on your stomach or on its side. If possible, apply ice to the injury site, having previously wrapped it in some kind of fabric. It is also necessary to give the victim an anesthetic pill - "Analgin", "Ibuprofen", and wait for the ambulance to arrive.

Diagnostics

Of course, it is clear that correct diagnosis and conservative treatment will be beneficial. If a person comes with complaints of pain in the tailbone, then first the doctor must examine the patient, palpate, then a rectal examination is carried out, it shows the severity of the damage to the tailbone. An obligatory item in the diagnosis of a crack is X-ray.

After that, the doctor takes pictures, examines them and decides if the diagnosis is sufficient to make a diagnosis. If not, then additional examinations are prescribed: MRI, sphincterometry, balloonography. After that, the doctor is convinced of the correctness of the diagnosis and prescribes the appropriate treatment.

Treatment

A hospitalized patient with this type of injury is primarily assigned to bed rest, lying on his stomach. It is allowed to sometimes change the position in order to avoid the formation of pressure ulcers, the patient's position is changed either to the side or to the back, but placing a circle.

Fissure in the tailbonerequires to reduce the load on the muscles of the pelvic floor, sphincter. This is done with the help of an enema, because then the act of defecation is much easier, which helps to avoid the transition of the crack into a complete fracture.

Proper nutrition is prescribed for a patient with a fissure. It is necessary for the bones to grow together, to recover, this is facilitated by calcium. Scientists have proven that silicon will help to better absorb calcium, so doctors recommend eating foods with its content - radishes, currants. It is recommended to consume other vitamins as well.

From symptomatic therapy, symptomatic drugs are prescribed - analgesics, ointments. It is forbidden to use the ointment if not only the tailbone was damaged during the injury, but also the skin. Prescribe "Ketoprofen", "Diclofenac", "Ibuprofen". If such medications are ineffective, novocaine blockade can be administered.

After the elimination of acute symptoms, rehabilitation therapy is prescribed. When the treatment is effective, the patient's health is fully restored in a month and a half.

Consequences and complications

Since the tailbone is part of the spine, the consequences can be very different.Fissured tailbone symptomsmanifests in different ways, and if you do not pay attention to it immediately, then this is fraught with consequences. Symptoms should be treated immediately, otherwise coccygodynia may occur. It is manifested by the appearance of sharp pain in the lumbar region, back, legs, for example, when trying to sit down, bend over or lie down. Even the smallest load on the spine causes unbearable pain, it hurts almost all the time, and the peculiarity of this complication is that it can occur a long period after the injury, so the person will not know what his suffering is connected with. The complication is being treated for a long time, leading to the patient's depression and an increased level of anxiety.

There are also cases of osteomyelitis in the coccyx area. And it is also possible that with an insufficient amount of vitamins and minerals, the injured bone will begin to disintegrate, then a person can remain in a wheelchair for life.

The spine plays a significant role in human health. It is from him that many nerves are innervated, the inflammation of which will lead to a failure of the inflammation of other organs. It is important to maintain all parts of the spine in a healthy state, since if any part of the spine suffers, problems with the heart, kidneys, urinary system, circulatory, hormonal and others appear.

Prophylaxis

Of course, firstly, you need to try to avoid injuries in the coccyx area. We need to take a closer look at our children, who love to ski downhill in winter and jump and run in places where it is quite dangerous to get injured in summer. Learning to fall properly is a good solution. In no case should you fall on your back, if your balance is lost, it is better to group, roll onto your back.

Correct footwear, selected in winter, attentiveness and caution will also help to avoid injury.

IN

It is important to follow the safety rules for horse riding, ice skating, and other sports.

To strengthen your bones, it would be good to buy yourself a complex of vitamins at least once every three months, as well as monitor your diet, add a little of those foods that contain calcium and silicon to your food.

If it happened that someone fell, it is better to immediately call an ambulance, prescribe treatment on time as needed, then avoiding completely unwanted consequences and complications.

(3 estimates, average: 5,00 out of 5)

There is no such person in the world who has never been somehow traumatized. Some people do not even fully know the concept of trauma, so they do not pay attention to many things, not thinking about the consequences of such negligence towards themselves and their health later. Here is one of these traumatized therecrack in the tailbone, which will entail serious consequences.

The frequency of falls on the softest point in our body is probably the highest. And in half of the cases, such falls lead to not the most pleasant pictures, because often this leads to trauma. These injuries can be divided into several types: sprains, bruises, dislocations, subluxations, cracks, fractures.

A crack in the tailbone is considered a severe injury, as it can lead to a complete fracture. It creates unpleasant sensations, but it is very difficult to identify it on its own, so you have to turn to specialists who prescribe the necessary examinations in order to make a diagnosis, prescribe treatment.

There are three types of cracks:

• vertical;
• horizontal;
• oblique.

Fissure of the tailbone: symptoms

Tailbone fissure or a microcrack will almost immediately manifest itself as a sharp pain in the coccyx area. Not everyone can understand the cause of lower back pain. When this happens due to a strong fall or blow, it is understandable, but if it happened by accident, and then pains appear, you should consult a doctor, he will examine and tell you the diagnosis.

But there are a number of symptoms that can help suggest a diagnosis before seeing a doctor. When walking, in a sitting position, lying on the back in the area that has been injured, pain intensifies, because of this, walking is impaired, it becomes heavier, hyperemia of the skin, edema, hematomas, pain that radiates to the lower extremities, and fever also appears.

First aid

Before the victim is given symptomatic treatment, first aid should be provided to alleviate his condition. At the scene of the accident, the victim must be placed so as not to create unnecessary pressure, to restrict the movement of the victim.

You need to choose a place, lay it either on your stomach or on its side. If possible, apply ice to the injury site, having previously wrapped it in some kind of fabric. It is also necessary to give the victim an anesthetic pill - "", "", and wait for the ambulance to arrive.

Diagnostics

Of course, it is clear that correct diagnosis and conservative treatment will be beneficial. If a person comes with complaints of pain in the tailbone, then first the doctor must examine the patient, palpate, then a rectal examination is carried out, it shows the severity of the damage to the tailbone. An obligatory item in the diagnosis of a crack is X-ray.

After that, the doctor takes pictures, examines them and decides if the diagnosis is sufficient to make a diagnosis. If not, then additional examinations are prescribed: MRI, sphincterometry, balloonography. After that, the doctor is convinced of the correctness of the diagnosis and prescribes the appropriate treatment.

Treatment

A hospitalized patient with this type of injury is primarily assigned to bed rest, lying on his stomach. It is allowed to sometimes change the position in order to avoid the formation of pressure ulcers, the patient's position is changed either to the side or to the back, but placing a circle.

Fissure in the tailbonerequires to reduce the load on the muscles of the pelvic floor, sphincter. This is done with the help of an enema, because then the act of defecation is much easier, which helps to avoid the transition of the crack into a complete fracture.

Proper nutrition is prescribed for a patient with a fissure. It is necessary for the bones to grow together, to recover, this is facilitated by calcium. Scientists have proven that silicon will help to better absorb calcium, so doctors recommend eating foods with its content - radishes, currants. It is recommended to consume other vitamins as well.

From symptomatic therapy, symptomatic drugs are prescribed - analgesics, ointments. It is forbidden to use the ointment if not only the tailbone was damaged during the injury, but also the skin. Prescribe "", "", "Ibuprofen". If such medications are ineffective, novocaine blockade can be administered.

After the elimination of acute symptoms, rehabilitation therapy is prescribed. When the treatment is effective, the patient's health is fully restored in a month and a half.

Consequences and complications

Since the tailbone is part of the spine, the consequences can be very different.Fissured tailbone symptomsmanifests in different ways, and if you do not pay attention to it immediately, then this is fraught with consequences. Symptoms should be treated immediately, otherwise coccygodynia may occur. It is manifested by the appearance of sharp pain in the lumbar region, back, legs, for example, when trying to sit down, bend over or lie down. Even the smallest load on the spine causes unbearable pain, it hurts almost all the time, and the peculiarity of this complication is that it can occur a long period after the injury, so the person will not know what his suffering is connected with. The complication is being treated for a long time, leading to the patient's depression and an increased level of anxiety.

There are also cases of osteomyelitis in the coccyx area. And it is also possible that with an insufficient amount of vitamins and minerals, the injured bone will begin to disintegrate, then a person can remain in a wheelchair for life.

The spine plays a significant role in human health. It is from him that many nerves are innervated, the inflammation of which will lead to a failure of the inflammation of other organs. It is important to maintain all parts of the spine in a healthy state, since if any part of the spine suffers, problems with the heart, kidneys, urinary system, circulatory, hormonal and others appear.

Prophylaxis

Of course, firstly, you need to try to avoid injuries in the coccyx area. We need to take a closer look at our children, who love to ski downhill in winter and jump and run in places where it is quite dangerous to get injured in summer. Learning to fall properly is a good solution. In no case should you fall on your back, if your balance is lost, it is better to group, roll onto your back.

Correct footwear, selected in winter, attentiveness and caution will also help to avoid injury.

IN

It is important to follow the safety rules for horse riding, ice skating, and other sports.

To strengthen your bones, it would be good to buy yourself a complex of vitamins at least once every three months, as well as monitor your diet, add a little of those foods that contain calcium and silicon to your food.

If it happened that someone fell, it is better to immediately call an ambulance, prescribe treatment on time as needed, then avoiding completely unwanted consequences and complications.

(3 estimates, average: 5,00 out of 5)