Shockwave Therapy for Tailbone Pain

Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a non-invasive treatment option for tailbone pain. It addresses pain, inflammation, and muscle tension around the coccyx, and can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. It is an excellent option for clients seeking a faster recovery time, or to avoid surgery, or who have not found relief through other traditional treatments.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities such as manual therapy, and stretch programs, it can provide a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Tailbone Pain (Coccydynia)?
Tailbone pain, also known as Coccydynia, is characterised by pain in the coccyx (tailbone) area, which can be triggered or exacerbated by trauma, prolonged sitting, or activities that put pressure on the tailbone.
Coccydynia can result from several causes, including:
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Trauma
Injury from falls or direct impact to the tailbone.
Prolonged Sitting
Sitting on hard surfaces for extended periods can strain the tailbone.
Childbirth
Pressure on the coccyx during childbirth can lead to injury and subsequent pain.
Degenerative Changes
Aging can lead to wear and tear on the coccyx, causing pain.
Infections or Tumours
Infections or tumours in the area can cause pain.
If you think you have tailbone pain and would like some advice then book your FREE phone consultation online now, drop us an email or phone us on 07760 536155 for a quick chat.
How Focused Shockwave Therapy Treats Tailbone Pain
- Promotes healing
- Promotes tissue regeneration
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Reduces muscle tension
Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or drop us an email to find out more about how we can help.
Treatment Protocol for Tailbone Pain
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for tailbone pain usually involves 5 to 8 sessions, spaced about one week apart. Each session lasts 30 minutes. The exact number of sessions may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the client’s response to treatment.
Intensity And Frequency
The intensity and frequency of the shockwaves are carefully adjusted based on the client’s pain tolerance and the characteristics of the condition.
Minimal Downtime
Clients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment, although they will be advised to avoid strenuous or high-impact activities for a short period if possible.
Post-Treatment Sensation
Some clients may experience mild soreness or swelling in the treated area. This typically resolves within a few days.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Tailbone Pain
Non-Invasive
Focused shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment, avoiding the risks and recovery time associated with surgical intervention.
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain reduction after just a few sessions, improving their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
Accelerated Healing
The therapy promotes faster healing of the tissue surrounding the coccyx, often reducing the overall recovery time compared to other treatments.
Long Lasting Results
By addressing the root cause of tailbone pain, focused shockwave therapy can provide long-term relief.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating tailbone pain, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Tailbone Pain
Severe pain is affecting function
If experiencing severe tailbone pain that significantly affects daily activities, such as sitting, standing, or walking.
Myofascial components
If the pain is suspected to have a significant myofascial component (trigger points, muscle tension). Tailbone pain often involves surrounding soft tissues, including muscles and ligaments, which can become inflamed or tense.
Avoid surgery
For clients who wish to avoid invasive procedures like surgical removal of the coccyx (coccygectomy) or those who are not good candidates for surgery.
Calcific deposits
If imaging investigations (e.g., X-rays, MRI) show calcifications or tendinopathies in the area surrounding the coccyx.
Persistent pain
If tailbone pain persists for more than three months despite conservative treatments (like oral pain medications, ergonomic modifications, coccyx cushions, and local injections).
Focused shockwave therapy may provide early relief from pain and promote healing of the soft tissues around the coccyx, improving comfort and function.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.

I’ve been dealing with chronic lower back pain and sciatica for years, and after trying countless treatments, I finally found real relief here. Nim has been fantastic from start to finish — professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. I recently had a series of shockwave therapy sessions combined with physiotherapy, and the results have been impressive. I’ve noticed a real reduction in pain and stiffness, and I’m finally able to move more freely again. Highly recommended to anyone struggling with long-term back issues!
I can't recommend Nim enough - she isn't just a shockwave therapist (which is an amazing type of therapy in itself) but she's also a very practised and knowledgeable physiotherapist. I've been to conventional physio (both private and on the NHS) and nothing has looked at actually solving the problem that causes the pain, leading to a worsening condition of the joint itself and ever increasing pain. Nim has stopped all of that, and been able to use a holistic approach and combine it with shockwave and her specialist knowledge to treat the problem, not just the symptoms. I regret the years spent with other treatments and wish I had found her sooner!
I have known Nim now for two years and her treatment and expertise with her shock wave machine has been exceptionally good. First and foremost, Nim is very knowledgeable about her profession with vast experience in the areas of physiotherapy and shock wave treatment. More recently I have been treated with various problems on my legs mainly tendonopathy/tendonosis around my Achilles and hamstrings /thighs. The treatment is excellent, Nim explains the problems clearly and offers advice and consultation throughout the two months I’ve been seeing her. I’m very grateful as I have had pain for several years and can finally see a path forward without pain. I can highly recommend her and her treatment/facilities!! And thank you Nim!
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.