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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I’ve been having pain in my buttocks for about a month now. I thought I was sore from using a stepper exercising machine too often but I

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
NC

Have not used that in a couple of weeks. Ibuprofen helps but I can’t keep taking that regularly. I have had to sit a lot the last 2.5 years since my compression fracture in my upper back that continues to cause pain daily. It seems to help the more I walk or am up but then my upper back bothers me if I am up and do to much. Anyone else experienced pain in buttocks. I wake up at night with it hurting worse too.

April 5
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A MyLupusTeam Member

It wouldn't hurt to try using a coccyx pillow for a couple of days to see if it helps relieve your pain.

April 5
A MyLupusTeam Member

In addition to the other suggestions, I suggest trying a heating pad on the muscles or soaking in a tub, Frankie. You could also try some gentle exercise by contracting the muscles for a few seconds and then releasing them, which may help.

April 6
MyLupusTeam

Have you been experiencing tailbone pain that worsens with sitting and improves when you're up and moving?

Yes, other MyLupusTeam members have experienced this. One member shared: "I get pain (soreness) in my tailbone after sitting, even if only for a brief period. It does not feel bruised, and I have not fallen. I have Show Full Answer

Have you been experiencing tailbone pain that worsens with sitting and improves when you're up and moving?

Yes, other MyLupusTeam members have experienced this. One member shared: "I get pain (soreness) in my tailbone after sitting, even if only for a brief period. It does not feel bruised, and I have not fallen. I have noticed it is increasing in frequency and severity over time." Another said, "I suffer with pain often in my tailbone and lower back. It usually disturbs my sleep during bedtime."

Your situation makes sense given your history. Extended sitting from your compression fracture recovery could be contributing to tailbone pain (coccydynia). When you sit for long periods, especially after a back injury that may have changed your posture, you can place extra pressure on your tailbone area. While lupus doesn't typically cause direct tailbone pain, there are several lupus-related factors that could contribute:

* Lupus can affect muscle tone and posture, causing you to sit unevenly or shift weight differently, which puts strain on the tailbone
* People with lupus have higher risk of osteoporosis, which weakens bones and increases fracture risk
* Inflammation from lupus arthritis in your hips or lower back might cause you to compensate with altered posture
* Extended sitting with less natural cushioning can irritate the tissues around the tailbone

You're right to be cautious about regular ibuprofen use. Long-term use increases risk of kidney problems, stomach bleeding, and other serious issues—especially concerning if you have any kidney involvement from lupus. It's important to see your doctor about this persistent pain. They may want to do imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan) to check for fractures, torn ligaments, or other causes. They can also help you find safer pain management options than daily ibuprofen.

In the meantime, try to take breaks from sitting when possible, even if brief, and consider cushioned seating to reduce pressure on your tailbone.

April 5
A MyLupusTeam Member

A few years ago I had a foot injury that put me in a air cast.
At work, I had to sit 10 hours a day. After some time passed my buttocks area became sore and numb. Walking felt awkward, I felt lopsided. Thankfully after the boot came off the pain and numbness subsided.
Good luck, you are in my prayers.
I sat at work for 2 years and gained a lot of weight. I was close to 200 lbs.
Now, I am at 140 lbs.

April 5
A MyLupusTeam Member

It’s not tailbone pain. It is actually pain throughout my entire buttock region. More like muscle pain.

April 5

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