Tailbone pain is a very discomforting condition which occurs in the coccyx (tailbone) present at the bottom of the spine between the buttocks. (1) As per a study conducted on 2000 cases of back pain, 2.7% were diagnosed with coccydynia or tailbone pain. (2)
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There are several reason that contribute to the discomfort which include injury, sitting for prolonger hours daily, car accident, pregnancy, cancer, herniated disc and many others. Usually, NSAID’s or anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids or even surgery is prescribed for tailbone pain in extreme cases.
If your doctor determines that the cause of tailbone pain is not life threatening then he will suggest a coccyx seat cushion or pillow. It helps you sit comfortably without adding pressure to your spine base. This prevents the situation from getting worse and relives discomforts (soreness, pain, inflammation).
How to Judge Which Pillow Works Best for Me?
When purchasing a tailbone pillow, you may come across different types like pillows, cushions, wedges and so on… Below are few situations which will let you understand which one to choose…
- If you are a frequent travelers and need tailbone support while driving then choose car seat cushion for hemorrhoids which also works for tailbone injuries.
- If your job requires you sitting for prolonger hours then go for a tailbone cushion or orthopedic cushion.
- If you need tailbone support during pregnancy then go for a tailbone pain relief pillow. However, it is best to confirm with your midwife or gynecologist.
- If you are horseback rider or bicyclist then choose coccyx wedge cushion as it helps you recover or support a long ride.
- If you have a severe coccyx pain then you can use anyone from cooling gel U-shaped cushions to donut shaped gel cushions.
Further, while purchasing a tailbone pillow, you have to consider other factors as well. We have mentioned them in our “Buying Guide”.
For your convenience, our expert team has done an extensive research with the help of some physiotherapists. After 60 hours of detailed examination and filtration, we finally picked the best among the available.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Tailbone Pillows or Cushions
Tailbone Pillow | Shape | Weight | Buy Now |
---|---|---|---|
Everlasting Comfort | U-Shaped | 1.8 pounds | Check the Price |
ComfiLife Gel-Enhanced | U-Shaped | 1 pound | Check the Price |
Clever Yellow | Wedge | 1 pound | Check the Price |
Dr. Frederick’s Original TEC | U-Shaped | 1.3 pounds | Check the Price |
Ayilo Cushion | U-Shaped | 12 ounces | Check the Price |
Cush Comfort | U-Shaped | 1.76 pounds | Check the Price |
Aylio Donut | Donut | 15.2 ounces | Check the Price |
Keiba Cushion | U-Shaped | 2.8 pounds | Check the Price |
Keiba Donut | Donut | 1.1 pounds | Check the Price |
Gelco GSEAT Classic | U-Shaped | 1.1 pounds | Check the Price |
Everlasting Comfort has taken the first position in our finalized list because of its finest quality memory foam, durability, perfect shape, support and other features. It is completely worth for what you spend.
Description of Each Product from the List
1. Everlasting Comfort
Are your suffering from chronic tailbone pain and pressure then we highly recommend purchasing Everlasting Comfort coccyx cushion. This U-shaped tailbone pillow is suggested by most of the orthopedic doctors, surgeons and physiotherapists for acute pain.
This pillow helps in relieving pain caused by sciatica, lumbar, coccyx, hip, spine, sores, lower back and others. It also helps to improve bad posture, enhance comfort and relieve leg pain while sitting or driving for longer periods of time.
The filling used for the cushion is high quality, 100% pure memory foam without any chemicals. This advanced memory foam responds to the body heat in order to perfectly mold the bottom shape. The thickness of the padded foam will support the lower back, spine, hips and tailbone.
You can use this pillow anywhere like office, kitchen chair, couch, wheelchair, office desk, stadium seat and many more. It also be used as seat raiser or lift cushion. The cover of this cushion is machine or hand washable.
Things We Liked:
- 100% memory foam.
- Heat responsive memory foam.
- Supports people of weight 100 – 300 pounds.
- Removable cover which slip resistant and machine washable.
- Lifetime replacement guarantee.
- Undergoes exhaustive R&D and relentless testing.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Stitching can come apart.
2. ComfiLife Gel-Enhanced Non-Slip Coccyx Seat Cushion
ComfiLife is one of the best memory foam cushion available in the market. This is a great option if you are suffering from sciatica, tailbone and back pain.
Its ergonomic and durable design will reduce the pressure that is put on the tailbone. Its U-shaped design will improve the posture. It is also great for women during pregnancy as its thickness will keep the lower spine straight.
The pillow is made from high-density memory foam in order provide both comfort and support. Its non-slip rubber button will prevent the pillow from sliding.
It has built-in handles for easy carrying. The removable zippered cover can be machine or hand washed. It is great for travelling, office, home, stadiums, and horse rides.
Things We Liked:
- Non-slip and ergonomic design.
- Easy to carry and durable.
- Specially contoured to support your back and legs too.
- Best gel-memory foam in the market.
- Money back guarantee.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Only comes in single color: grey.
- Can be uncomfortable for people weighing extra pounds.
3. Clever Yellow Car Seat Cushion
Do you travel a lot? Does your job requires travelling regularly? Then we recommend going with Clever Yellow Car Seat Cushion. This orthopedic cushion lets your pelvis to tilt forward which removes the pressure on the spine and tailbone.
It is made up of 3 layer technology that combines breathable mesh material, firm memory foam comfort and molded clever foam core. In order to provide exclusive no-flatten design, a thin layer of top grade memory foam is provided. This will not lose the shape of the cushion like other brands.
With 3 inches of height, this tailbone wedge gives a lift and perfect support to the lumbar and coccyx. This auto booster pad has removable gray cover which can be hand washed.
Things We Liked:
- Wedge shaped pillow.
- Best suited for regular travelers like truck drivers.
- 3 layer technology to prevent flattening.
- Breathable mesh cover.
- Adjustable straps.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- The removable cover has to be hand washed.
4. Dr. Frederick’s Original TEC Tailbone Cushion
Next in the list comes Dr. Frederick’s Original Coccyx Cushion. It is one of the best pillows for people suffering from coccydynia. It is a medium firm seater which relieves pain and provides comfort.
This U-shaped pillow is best suited for relieving pain caused by tailbone, hemorrhoids, anal, birth injuries and many others. It is made up of premium medium firm material for providing optimal firmness in order to relieve pain and cramps.
The non-slip bottom ensures the pillow grips the seat perfectly for safety and stability. As the material is breathable, it prevents sweating around the thighs. The dual side handles ensure easy grip and also help to adjust the positioning. The simple and easy to remove outer mesh can be machine washed without any worries.
Things We Liked:
- Medium firm material.
- Non-slip bottom.
- Breathable material.
- Dual side handles.
- Easy to clean and the outer cover can be machine washed.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- The foam is a bit hard and rough.
5. Ayilo Coccyx Seat Cushion
This premium seat cushion works diligently in taking off the pressure developed in the lumbar and coccyx. This ensures the tailbone doesn’t touch the surface and prevent the soreness.
The body of this U-shaped pillow has a contoured surface which gently aligns the spine and distributes the weight accordingly. Its dimensions are 18x14x3 inches which make it easy for carry around. You can use it either in home, office or travels.
This orthopedic coccyx chair pad provides amazing back support and relieves the discomforts caused from the body weight pressing down the lower tailbone area. It is best suited for people suffering from back pain, herniated disc, sciatica relief, injury and hemorrhoids.
Its hygienic velvet outer cover can be removed easily. It can be machine washed and dry cleaned easily. With this cushion pad, you can sit for prolonged hours comfortably without any pain.
Things We Liked:
- U-shaped cut out design.
- Contoured surface.
- Light weight and portable.
- Plush velvet washable cover.
- Best known for its orthopedic support.
Things We Didn’t Liked:
- Slides off on some materials like nylon and leather.
6. Cush Comfort Memory Foam Seat Cushion
Cush Comfort seat cushion uses high performance memory foam technology which responds to the body heat and molds perfectly into the shape of your buttocks. This enables the cushion to prevent the tailbone from touching the hard surface preventing the pain.
It is medically proven to provide relief from lower back pain, point pressure and numbness which are often caused while spending most of the time in sitting position.
The customized non-slip bottom feature makes sure the cushion stays in place no matter which upholstery it is placed on. You no longer have to constantly reposition it, causing comfortability.
Even though if it used regularly for longer periods of time, it doesn’t flatten out like other brands. You can trust the safety of this cushion as it is tested and approved by 3rd party. The manufacturer provides a lifetime money back guarantee on this tailbone cushion.
Things We Liked:
- 100% pure, Grade A memory foam.
- Doesn’t contain any fillers.
- Non-slip bottom.
- 100% lifetime money back guarantee.
- Instant relief from tailbone pain.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- A bit hard or firm.
7. Aylio Donut Seat Cushion
Aylio is a patented pillow which promotes healthy weight distribution, posture alignment, blood circulation and spine alignment. This donut shaped pillow will assist in treating sores, ulcers, hemorrhoids and lower back pain.
No matter where you place it (office chair, plane, wheelchair, car seat or stadium seat) it provides ultimate comfort. The contoured firmness will reduce the pressure on tailbone, coccyx, legs, and hip bones while sitting for prolonged hours.
It has removable velour cover which can be machine washed for easy cleaning. You can use it anytime in order to keep your tailbone free from pain and soreness.
Things We Liked:
- The contoured shape fits buttocks.
- Cover is machine washable.
- Light in weight and easy to use.
- Soft, velvety fabric.
- Reduce the pressure on tailbone.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Fabric cover can slide when sitting on a smooth surface.
8. Keiba Coccyx Seat Cushion
The coccyx seat cushion presented by keiba is a composite of memory foam and cooling gel. This cushion pillow is known for relieving the tension and supporting the lower back.
The cooling gel present in the tailbone pillow removes the heat present around the spine and aids in pain relief. This cushion designed in such a way that it has more gel coverage than others.
It is specially designed to reduce tension and pain from the lower back, hip, spine and sciatic areas. Its firm density provides extra support to the lower back and pelvic muscles.
As it contains therapeutic grade memory foam, it will not flatten out even when used for prolonged periods. The non-slip bottom ensures the cushion stays in place even when used on smooth surfaces.
Things We Liked:
- Promotes good posture, improves spine alignment and distributes weight evenly.
- Provides superior comfort on chair, bench, car seat, plane seat or wheel chair.
- Removable velour cover.
- Non-slip bottom.
- Premium therapeutic grade memory foam.
- More cooling gel coverage.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Stitching can come apart.
9. Keiba Donut Tailbone Cushion
This donut pillow is not only good for tailbone but also relieves other spine related discomforts and hemorrhoids. On the back of the pillow, non-slip beads are assorted so it doesn’t slip off even when placed on a smooth surface.
This pillow can also be used by pregnant women, after childbirth and people who are suffering from prostatitis and lower back pain. It also promotes good posture and healthy distribution of weight.
The outer cover of the donut cushion can be removed easily and the inner pillow is made of high quality firm foam. It is designed in such a way that it is enough to suit any sized person comfortably.
Things We Liked:
- Durable and ergonomic.
- Easy to carry around.
- Provides maximum relief and comfort.
- Non-slip bottom.
- Doesn’t flatten out.
- Removable velour cover.
- Dense premium comfort foam.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Fabric can leave stain on light colored fabrics.
10. Gelco GSEAT Classic Orthopedic Seat Cushion
The Gelco seat is recommended by most of the orthopedic doctors due to its capability of supporting the pelvic muscles and lumbar. This seat supports cushioning features of memory foam and weight-dispersing capabilities of gel in order to improve prolonged sitting hours.
The 5 degree wedge design elevates the hips to improve posture. It can also assist in relieving pressure on the thighs above the knees. The groove that runs down the middle of the GSeat helps in reducing tailbone pressure.
The air vent will assist in relieving pressure on the back of the thigh above the knees. It can be folded in half for easy access and carrying. The neoprene cover permits the users to shift position while gripping underside remains fixed on the seat. The dual layer foam and gel construction provided enough support and pressure relief that lasts for many years.
Things We Liked:
- Best suited for sciatica, tailbone and back pain.
- Patented and integrated design and handle.
- Eliminates soft tissue pressure and suspends the tailbone.
- 100% money back guarantee.
- Portable, durable and ergonomic.
- Improves posture.
Things We Didn’t Like:
- A little pricey.
- Doesn’t have soft cooling gel.
How Exactly Does a Coccyx Cushion Relieves the Pain?
Coccyx cushions alleviate the pain by eliminating the pressure and weight off the tailbone. Moreover, it also decreases the cramps and swelling too.
Usually, memory foam is used for making these cushions as they are soft and stable which can ensure properly aligned spine. These pillows also ensure the weight is properly distributed evenly and centre of gravity is adjusted accordingly. These pillows have a cut-out area (beneath the coccyx) which suspends the air and relieves the pressure completely.
What to Consider While Choosing a Coccyx Seat Cushion
When it comes to choosing the right, you have to consider a set of factors that help you make an informed choice while purchasing the pillows. The below buying guide helps you pay close attention to the feature and choose the right one for you.
1. Material
Not every problem is equal – and just one type of cushion is not suitable for all types of pains. Below, we have explained different types of cushion that vary in material. Read their descriptions carefully to choose any one among them.
a. Memory Foam Cushions
These type of cushions are very popular and most preferred ones. Unlike other options, memory foam cushions are compact and light in weight. So, they can be carried anywhere you go.
Benefits of Memory Foam Cushions:
- Durability: memory foam is much durable and lasts for long period of time as it can handle the regular wear and tear.
- Temperature Regulation: This material contains additives which enables the cushion to adjust body’s temperature accordingly. This feature provides comfort and warmness in the winters.
- Transport: Based on the size, these cushion are very easy to take it from one place to another. They are very light in weight.
- Improved Back Support: This material has the ability to mold as per the user’s body curves. So, this helps in providing proper back support.
- Hypo-Allergenic: As memory foam is resistant to allergens and dust mites, it is perfect for people who are allergic or skin sensitive.
- Budget-Friendly: These types of pillows are available at an affordable price range.
b. Gel-based Seat Cushions
These cushions are specifically developed in order to provide relief by submerging the pressure points of the individual. Apart from that, with advanced positioning characterises, they contribute to a stable seating surface.
Benefits of Gel Based Cushion:
- Improvement in Blood Circulation: The gel present in the cushion will disperse the weight and pressure evenly which helps in increasing blood circulation. This ultimately results in improving posture and boosting productivity. These are perfect for people who sit for longer hours as they alleviate soft tissues.
- Provides Comfort and Support: These type of pillows are specially developed to support and provide comfort. The gel will create the feeling of mobility while sitting.
- Deals with Health Issues: These are perfect for people who deal with leg numbness, lower back pain, degenerative hip disease and haemorrhoids. They are also helpful in preventing issues that include ulcer pressure which can lead to serious discomfort.
- Maintenance and Durability: Gel-based cushions are easy to clean and maintain the hygiene. For cleaning them, all you have to do is – soak a cloth in mixture of warm water and detergent, gently scrub it to remove the debris and dust accumulate on it. They are very thick when compared to others and last long too.
- Therapeutic Properties: These cushions provide therapeutic effect which enables the user to relax without any discomfort.
- Shock Absorbability: One of the main advantages of gel-based cushions is the capacity of absorbing shock. It minimizes the vibrations that are experienced while driving. This feature prevents chances of injuries and muscle spasms.
- Portability: Gel based cushions are compact so you can easily pack and carry them to anywhere like office, car journeys, camp trips, flights and others. However, they are a bit heavier compared to other cushions. So, it can be difficult to transport them especially by people who have weakness or disabilities.
c. Foam Cushions
These are the most common forms of cushions that are incredibly inexpensive. Some of the brands provide single-density firm foam cushion, while other provide contoured based multiple foam layers. They help to enhance the pressure management.
Benefits of Foam Seat Cushions:
- Enough Support: These cushion are capable of provide enough amount of support to the user which helps in improving posture and improve back health.
- Lightweight: This is the main advantage of foam cushions – they are incredibly light in weight when compared to other types. So, you can easily carry them wherever you want.
- Affordable: They are the basic cushions present in the market and are very less in price. Users can also purchase multiple cushions for individual use like office, car or home.
2. Different Styles
There are different types of tail bone pillows available in the market. Each of them provides different type of support and comfort based up on the weight, pressure points and body shape. Donut and circular shaped pillows are quite popular now-a-days. They have a hole in center that mimics a real donut shape. This helps in taking off the pressure from the tailbone. Wedge pillows are known for their versatility. Inflatable ones are good for people who travel regularly. You can choose anyone based up on how you will use them.
3. Shape
A tailbone pillow can be found in different shapes, however, U and V shaped ones are quite common. It is very important to choose the right one as it will provide proper comfort and relieve pressure off the spine. This can be known only through trial and error.
4. Thickness
When it comes to comfort, thickness of the tailbone cushion matters. But it doesn’t mean that more thickness provides ultimate comfort. In fact, if the coccyx cushion has more thickness then it becomes a little awkward to sit. However, sitting on a too little cushioning can also lead to further pain as it may not have any effect on the pain. Make sure the thickness of the tailbone pillow is neither too thick nor too thin.
5. Weight
It plays an important role in choosing the right cushion for you. No one likes to carry a pillow that is heavy in weight. Actually, weight of the pillow mainly depends on the filling/material. Cushions containing gel or fluid are a lot heavier. Cushions having memory foam as material are quite lighter and easier to carry along.
6. Price
Low quality or cheap cushions don’t last long as they cannot withstand the daily wear and tear. High-quality cushions will last long and reduce the tissue breakdown too.
7. Durable
This factor also depends on the filling/material. Gel or fluid based cushions are less durable as they can get harden overtime and cause risk to tissues. Any type of foam (especially memory foam) is much durable than other types.
8. Cover
Make sure the cushion you choose has removable cover – as it helpful in maintaining its hygiene – which increasing the cushion life.
9. Maintenance
Coccyx cushions that require high-maintenance like inflatable can ultimately cost you more than your budget. Foam and gel-based ones are much low on maintenance. Foam based ones are relatively much cheaper.
Advantages of Using Tailbone Pillow
Tailbone pillows are specially designed to relieve pain in the back or lumbar when sitting for prolonged time. If used correctly, this can be a great tool for you. Read the following to know its benefits…
1. Relives Pain
If you have to sit for longer periods of time then stress and strain on the lower back can cause pain. For people who are overweight, this can be even more painful as their body adds up even more strain. Such type of pain can be chronic which can stay for very long time. Tailbone pillows are specially designed to deal with such discomfort. They provide support to the lower back, especially to the sensitive inward curve of the spine. This ultimately provides relief from the pain caused by sitting for extended periods.
2. Improvement in Posture
Sitting in the same place without movement can lead to slouching. Coccyx cushions will prevent the elevation of pelvis which lead to an upright position. This will result in placing the inward curve of lumbar spine.
3. Enough Support
Tailbone pillows are made up of highest quality materials which provides enough support to the lower spine. Memory foam is the most common material used for these type of pillows. This material adjusts to the body weights and perfectly aligns the spine when you are seated. As they do not engage the back core muscles, you will not experience any fatigue even if you are sitting for extended periods. Most of the people who are using tailbone cushions have observed increased alertness and focus after a prolonged use.
4. Special Cut-Out Factor
The uniqueness of this pillow is the special cut out area – which offers enough space for coccyx to suspend and prevent the direct contact effect. This eliminates the pressure on the lumbar and tailbone areas.
5. Portable
If you travel a lot then you will require a support cushion that is portable and compact. And tailbone pillows offer exactly the same. You can use them anywhere – cars, bars, meeting halls, bus, or airplane.
6. Sizes and Shapes
As the problematic areas are different from one person to another, the manufacturers are developing tailbone pillows in different shapes and sizes. Types of coccyx pillows include – donut, u-shaped and cut out.
If you are having backache, lumbar or tailbone pain then these cushions are a ready to use solution. This not only provides relief from the pain but also supports the back.
What is The Proper Way to Use a Coccyx Cushion?
A tailbone pillow can be used anywhere i.e., chair, car seat, airplane seat and others. There are different types of cushions, as one single cushion is not designed for all types of situations. You have to choose based on your usage. However, the main principle of using it is same – to relieve the pressure off the tailbone. Below, are few details on how exactly to use a coccyx cushion…
- Make sure the height of the chair is comfortable after the cushion is placed. If the height is not compatible or if the thighs are slightly higher than usual – then place your feet on a footstool. Make sure the lower body is always in comfortable position. If you are sitting in an adjustable chair then adjust the height as per comfortability.
- If you need extra height then you can either purchase a thicker cushion or add padding or pillows below.
- In case, if you are placing the cushion on a soft seat (plush chair or couch) then place a rigid board under the cushion for support.
- You can add ice or hot packs to your cushions – wrap the packs in towels and place them on either side of the cut-out area. Some of the tailbone pillows come with gel inserts – you have to just warm or freeze them before inserting.
- Most of the cushions come with removable covers that can be machine washed. Make sure to wash them regularly for proper hygiene.
- If you are using a soft foam cushion that is not providing enough comfort then upgrade to a denser or firm foam for good support.
How to Use a U-Shaped Tailbone Pillow?
Most of the people think that U-shaped pillows should be facing forward. But this is not the right way of using it. When placing a U-shaped tailbone pillow, you have to make sure the U-shape faces the back because the coccyx will be present there. As the cushion adds at least 3 inches of height, you have to adjust the chair’s height accordingly. Make sure to keep the hips and knees at 90-degrees angle while seated.
Other Ways to Manage Tailbone Pain
Apart using tailbone pillow, below are few other specific ways that help you deal with the pain.
1. Avoid Leaving the Ground
This is one of the main things to follow for a significant pain relief in coccyx area. If you use a hydraulic chair then make sure your feet touch the ground firmly and not in the air. If you are not able to place the feet firmly then put a small box under your feet. Grounding your feet properly will distribute the body weight evenly and support the pelvic area.
2. Avoid Sitting for Prolonged Hours
Make sure to get up, stretch, walk down the corridor once in 25 – 30 minutes. If you are getting involved in the work and forgetting about it then set an alarm in your phone. This stretching will provide enough time for your pelvic muscles to get relief. It also improves blood circulation.
Some other examples to avoid sitting for prolonged hours include working at a standing desk, conducting a meeting while walking, working from home, laying on your back while work and others.
Few Words Before you Leave…!
Ultimately, if you suffering from coccyx pain then seat cushions can be of a great help. However, make sure to choose the right one as per your interest and requirement. You can take advantage of our buying guide to make an informed choice.
As per our experts, “Everlasting Comfort” is the highly recommended one even by doctors and therapeutics.
We hope the information provided in this article was helpful for you. If you have any queries, write to us in the comment section below. Our experts will answer them as soon as possible.
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