Base Of The Coccyx, Posterior View

Description

Coccygeal base anatomy is centered on the first coccygeal vertebra (Co1), the broad superior segment that meets the apex of the sacrum at the midline sacrococcygeal symphysis. From this posterior perspective, the dorsal surface of Co1 lies inferior to the sacral hiatus, and the paired coccygeal cornua project superolaterally toward the sacral cornua across the posterior margin of the joint. Short transverse processes flare laterally from the base, while the remaining coccygeal segments taper inferiorly toward the coccygeal apex. Pain at the tailbone often localizes to this junction. Coccydynia after a fall, postpartum subluxation, or fracture commonly involves the sacrococcygeal articulation and the posterior ligamentous complex, and the posterior view helps clarify where the posterior sacrococcygeal ligament spans from the sacral canal to the dorsal coccyx. Bony landmarks at the base also frame adjacent soft tissue attachments, including the coccygeus (ischiococcygeus) and portions of gluteus maximus, structures that can be implicated in pelvic floor dysfunction and in surgical exposure for coccygectomy. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and osteology teaching to reinforce sacrum to coccyx relationships, or in clinical anatomy materials discussing coccydynia workup, postpartum pelvic pain, and operative planning around the sacrococcygeal joint. It also suits radiology and orthopedic references when correlating palpation points with lateral radiographs or CT reconstructions of coccygeal morphology and alignment. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.