Coccydynia: Understanding the Mechanisms of Tailbone Pain

Coccydynia refers to localized or referred pain around the coccyx (tailbone), often aggravated in the seated position or during postural transitions. This knowledge base provides a mechanistic and functional framework: anatomy, biomechanics, neurological networks, structural vs functional distinctions, mechanisms of chronicity, and vulnerability factors.

Knowledge Base — Coccydynia

1. Purpose of this knowledge base

This section provides a rigorous explanatory foundation without oversimplification, in order to distinguish causes, mechanisms, and vulnerability factors. It does not propose a therapeutic protocol: it provides the interpretive framework necessary for any coherent management strategy.

Key point

Tailbone pain may persist without any visible structural lesion, or conversely coexist with an abnormality that is not painful. Understanding coccydynia requires moving beyond the simplistic “imaging equals explanation” model.

2. Recommended reading path

Understanding coccydynia relies on a logical progression. Each page below is a standalone chapter while remaining part of a comprehensive global reasoning framework.

3. Access the chapters

1 — Functional Anatomy & Biomechanics Structure, sacrococcygeal joint, physiological mobility, mechanical role. 2 — Mechanical Causes of Coccydynia Trauma, repetitive strain, prolonged sitting, triggering and perpetuating factors. 3 — Local Pain vs Referred Pain Radiating pain, pelvic neurological crossroads, ganglion impar, frequent diagnostic confusion. 4 — Structural vs Functional Why imaging may appear normal despite significant pain (and vice versa). 5 — Chronic Tailbone Pain: The Vicious Cycle? Self-perpetuating pain mechanisms, loss of adaptability, sensitization processes. 6 — Morphology & Mechanical Vulnerability (Postacchini) Morphological variability as a vulnerability factor without deterministic pain prediction.

4. How to use this knowledge base

  • Read the chapters in order for a comprehensive understanding.
  • Access a specific chapter directly depending on your question (anatomy, causes, referred pain…).
  • Each page explores a specific mechanism in depth, without redundancy.

5. Conclusion

Coccydynia cannot be understood through a single or simplistic approach. It results from interactions between anatomical structures, mobility, mechanical constraints, neurological networks, and the body’s adaptive capacity. This knowledge base aims to provide the interpretive keys necessary to place tailbone pain within a coherent and global framework.

Note: This content explains mechanisms. It does not constitute medical diagnosis or therapeutic prescription.