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Warning-sign checks

Tailbone trauma: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care after an injury if you develop:

    • New loss of bladder or bowel control
    • Inability to pass urine with numbness around the groin or anus
    • New leg weakness, severe numbness, or difficulty walking
    • Heavy bleeding, fainting, or signs of a major pelvic injury

    These symptoms are not typical of a simple coccyx injury and may indicate damage to nerves, the spine, pelvis, or internal organs.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange urgent medical assessment if there is an open wound, spreading redness, drainage, fever, rapidly worsening pain, or severe swelling.

    You should also be assessed promptly after a high-force accident or if you have weak bones and significant pain after a fall.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine medical follow-up is appropriate if the pain prevents usual activities, is not beginning to improve after a few weeks, repeatedly returns, or has no clear injury behind it.

    Night pain, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer also warrants medical review.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tailbone trauma. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.