April 22, 2024 | Nathan Covelski, DC
Do we have body parts that have no use or no specific purpose? The appendix, ear muscles, wisdom teeth, or the tail bone might come to mind.
In this article, we will take a look at the tailbone. So, what about it? Does it have a purpose? Let’s find out!
Anatomy of the Coccyx (Tailbone)
Purpose
Final Thoughts
Anatomy of the Coccyx (Tailbone)
At the bottom of the spine, between our 2 pelvic bones, there is a triangular shaped bone called the sacrum. This bone is the foundation of the whole spine. Connected to the sacrum at the very bottom of the spine is a set of 3-5 bones that have fused together called the coccyx or “tailbone.” This is a separate bone from the sacrum and there is a joint between the sacrum and the coccyx (tailbone) which means that the tailbone CAN subluxate.
Purpose
The coccyx has multiple ligaments and muscles attached to it. Some of the muscles that are attached to the coccyx include the pelvic floor muscles. We use these muscles every day for things like going to the bathroom, for sexual functions, and to help stabilize the pelvis, especially during pregnancy. These are the same muscles that are worked when doing Kegel exercises. Also, there is a small ligament called the filum terminale attached to the coccyx. This important ligament anchors the spinal cord to keep it at the perfect amount of tension so the spinal cord and nerves emerging from the spine can work and function properly.
What Can Chiropractors Do For Coccyx Pain?
The coccyx can be adjusted! If the coccyx gets injured and subluxates, not only can it be an annoying pain in the butt (literally), but since it is the anchor point for the whole spinal cord, if the coccyx shifts, it can tighten the spinal cord which in turn can cause very serious and difficult to pinpoint symptoms such as shooting pain down the legs, weakness, numbness, tremors, or spasms.
The coccyx serves a very important role. Not only in helping us use the bathroom but keeping our nervous system at the perfect tension to control and coordinate our body properly.
Final Thoughts
So, is the coccyx just a remnant body part? No! It supports your pelvis and spinal cord. If it becomes subluxated or injured, it can cause a wide array of issues if not corrected. How can something that has no purpose cause significant health problems? The tailbone has a purpose!
Can you think of any other body parts that are said to have no purpose? Comment below!
To schedule a chiropractic appointment, call Dr. Nathan Covelski at Restoration Chiropractic at 612-295-0180
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