Ambulance 912HAP 9252
Back to all symptoms and conditions
General health information

Tailbone pain

Tailbone pain occurs at the bottom of the spine and often worsens with sitting, standing up or leaning back. The area usually recovers with time and reduced pressure, but assessment is needed after a hard fall or with warning signs.

In this article
Choose which sections to read

Tailbone pain occurs at the bottom of the spine and often worsens with sitting, standing up or leaning back. The area usually recovers with time and reduced pressure, but assessment is needed after a hard fall or with warning signs.

  • Localised pain or tenderness just above the cleft between the buttocks.
  • More pain when sitting, especially on a hard surface or when leaning back.
  • Alternate sitting, standing and walking frequently and take short movement breaks.
  • Lean slightly forward when sitting and use a firm cushion with a cut-out at the back.
  • Make an appointment if pain has not clearly eased after a few weeks or severely limits sitting.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

Your response

Two anonymous questions

Did you find what you were looking for?

Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?

Share article

Email

Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?

Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.

Further reading

Browse A–Z
P
Preventing fallsFalls often result from a combination of reduced strength or balance, dizziness, vision, foot problems, medicines and obstacles. Individual assessment and strength and balance training work better than simply being careful. Prompt help is needed after a fall involving head impact, blood thinners, severe hip or back pain or loss of neurological function.
B
Bad breathBad breath usually comes from the mouth or teeth, for example from a coated tongue, gum problems or a dry mouth. Thorough cleaning often helps, but persistent odour needs dental assessment. Swelling and swallowing or breathing problems are warning signs.
S
Sick childA sick child often has a harmless infection, but can deteriorate quickly, especially as a baby. Look beyond the temperature: breathing, colour, responsiveness, how easily the child wakes, drinking, urination, pain, rash and the parent's sense that something is wrong determine how quickly assessment is needed.