Jones Injury Attorneys | May 8, 2026 | Personal Injury
A broken tailbone, also called a coccyx fracture, can cause significant pain and discomfort that interferes with everyday life. The tailbone is located at the very bottom of the spine and helps support your body when sitting, leaning back, or transitioning between movements.
Although tailbone injuries are often associated with slip and falls, they can also occur in car accidents, sports injuries, or other traumatic events. Recognizing the symptoms of a broken tailbone is important because untreated injuries can lead to chronic pain and long-term complications.
Severe Pain While Sitting
One of the hallmark symptoms of a broken tailbone is intense pain while sitting. Many people notice that the pain becomes worse when sitting on hard surfaces or leaning backward in a chair. Even short periods of sitting may become uncomfortable.
Some individuals attempt to relieve the pressure by shifting their weight to one side or sitting on specially designed cushions. If sitting becomes extremely painful after an accident or fall, it may indicate a coccyx injury.
Pain During Movement
A fractured tailbone often causes pain during everyday movements. Activities such as standing up from a seated position, bending, walking, or climbing stairs can aggravate the injury. Sudden movements may create sharp or stabbing pain near the base of the spine.
In some cases, coughing or sneezing can also increase discomfort because of the pressure placed on the pelvic muscles and lower spine.
Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling around the lower back or buttocks are common symptoms after a tailbone fracture. The affected area may appear discolored or tender to the touch. Swelling can develop within hours of the injury and may persist for several days.
Although bruising alone does not necessarily mean the tailbone is broken, it is often a sign of significant trauma that should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Tenderness Around the Base of the Spine
People with a broken tailbone frequently experience tenderness directly over the coccyx. Pressing on the area may cause sharp pain or soreness. This tenderness can make certain activities, such as lying on your back, difficult and uncomfortable.
The pain is usually concentrated at the very bottom of the spine rather than spreading throughout the back.
Pain During Bowel Movements
A tailbone fracture may also cause discomfort during bowel movements. The muscles and ligaments connected to the coccyx can become irritated or inflamed after an injury, making certain bodily functions painful.
Some individuals may avoid using the restroom because of the discomfort, which can lead to additional health concerns, such as constipation.
Pain During Sexual Activity
A broken tailbone can also cause pain during sexual activity because the coccyx is connected to several muscles, ligaments, and nerves within the pelvic region. Certain movements or positions may place additional pressure on the injured area, leading to discomfort, sharp pain, or lingering soreness afterward.
In some cases, the pain may persist even after other symptoms begin to improve. This type of discomfort can interfere with daily life and relationships, making it important to seek medical evaluation if symptoms continue following an accident or fall.
Difficulty Sleeping
Sleeping with a broken tailbone can be challenging, especially for people who normally sleep on their backs. Pressure on the injured area may make it difficult to find a comfortable position. Many people with coccyx injuries are forced to sleep on their sides or stomachs to reduce pain.
Persistent discomfort at night can interfere with rest and slow the healing process.
Contact the Albuquerque Personal Injury Lawyers at Jones Injury Attorneys for a Free Consultation
A broken tailbone can cause serious pain and disrupt nearly every aspect of daily life, from sitting and sleeping to walking and working. If your injury resulted from a car accident, slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, understanding your legal rights may be important.
The experienced team at Jones Injury Attorneys helps injury victims throughout New Mexico pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages after serious accidents. Contact our law office today to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned Albuquerque personal injury lawyer.
We proudly take cases in all of New Mexico.
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