Is Your Tailbone Pain Coming From Your Lower Back? How Lumbar Spine Surgery Can Help

Tailbone pain—also known as coccygodynia—can make sitting, standing, or even simple daily tasks incredibly uncomfortable. Many people assume the source of pain is the tailbone itself, but in some cases, the true cause lies higher up: in the lumbar spine.

At his Dallas-based spine surgery practice, Dr. Craig C. Callewart, MD evaluates patients with tailbone pain to determine whether it’s originating from the lower spine—and whether lumbar surgery might offer long-term relief.

Understanding Tailbone Pain

Tailbone pain is typically described as a dull, aching sensation at the very bottom of the spine, which may worsen when:

• Sitting on hard surfaces
• Rising from a seated position
• Bending or lifting
• After a fall or injury

While direct trauma to the coccyx can cause inflammation and pain, referred pain from lumbar spine conditions is often an overlooked culprit.

When Tailbone Pain Comes From the Lower Back

Several conditions in the lumbar spine (L4-S1) can mimic or contribute to tailbone pain:

• Lumbar disc herniation: A bulging or herniated disc pressing on nearby nerves can radiate pain downward toward the tailbone or sacrum.
• Degenerative disc disease: Breakdown of discs in the lower back may cause chronic, referred pain to the sacrococcygeal area.
• Facet joint arthritis: Inflammation of joints in the lower spine can trigger localized pain that extends to the tailbone.
• Nerve compression (radiculopathy): Sciatic nerve irritation can produce symptoms in the buttocks, pelvis, or tailbone region.

Diagnosing the Source of Pain

Accurate diagnosis is essential. Dr. Callewart performs a comprehensive evaluation that may include:

• Detailed physical exam
• Spinal imaging (MRI, CT, or X-ray)
• Targeted injections to isolate the source of pain
• Review of patient history, injuries, and previous treatments

This careful process helps determine whether the pain originates from the tailbone itself—or if lumbar spine treatment is the key to relief.

When Lumbar Spine Surgery May Help

If conservative treatments (such as physical therapy, injections, or medications) have failed and lumbar pathology is confirmed, Dr. Callewart may recommend surgical intervention. Procedures may include:

• Lumbar microdiscectomy to relieve pressure from a herniated disc
• Laminectomy or decompression to create space for pinched nerves
• Lumbar fusion to stabilize degenerative or unstable vertebrae

Patients often experience significant pain relief in the coccyx and lower back when the true underlying lumbar condition is addressed.

Why Choose Dr. Craig C. Callewart, MD?

With over 25 years of spine surgery experience, Dr. Callewart is known for:

• Thorough, accurate diagnostics—especially in complex or unclear cases
• A conservative-first philosophy to avoid unnecessary surgery
• Compassionate, one-on-one care in an independent, patient-focused setting

Don’t Let Tailbone Pain Control Your Life

If you’ve been struggling with tailbone pain and traditional treatments haven’t worked, it’s time to look deeper. The problem may be rooted in your lumbar spine, and Dr. Callewart can help uncover the cause and guide you toward lasting relief.

📞 Call (214) 271-4585 or visit www.c3spine.com to schedule a consultation with Dr. Craig C. Callewart, MD.