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CoccyxThe coccyx (tailbone) is the final region of the spine, after the sacrum. This region is the evolutionary remains of what used to be a tail. The tailbone consists of 3 to 5 fused vertebrae with 4 being average. These vertebrae do no have individual names. The vertebrae may be fused as one solid piece of bone or in segments of 2 or more bones each. The tailbone is joined to the sacrum by the vestigial disc and ligaments.
The tailbone only has a limited ability to move independently of the sacrum. The exception to this general rule occurs when a woman is pregnant. In this case, the coccyx is able to move quite freely to allow an easier passage for childbirth. In women, the tailbone is rotated and faces backwards. This makes it prominent and easily damaged, especially from a fall or during childbirth.
In general, the tailbone can be injured in any fall that lands the person on the base of their spine. In most instances of coccyx fracture, the bones will heal naturally. Just make sure that they are rested, and not stressed too much by sitting.
For more information on tailbone pain, see my
coccyx pain
page.
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