## Overview Coccygeal vertebral arthritis is osteoarthritis of the joints between the vertebrae of the tail. It is uncommon as a primary clinical problem but can produce tail stiffness, pain on manipulation, or reduced tail tone and carriage. Trauma or repetitive strain are the usual triggers. ## Causes Direct trauma, falls, or chronic repetitive loading of the tail. Degenerative change can also occur with age. ## Diagnosis Palpation and manipulation of the tail elicit pain or reveal reduced mobility. Radiographs confirm osteophytes or joint-space changes when clinically indicated. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and avoidance of further trauma. Most cases are managed conservatively. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for comfort. Residual stiffness may remain. ## Prevention Minimizing tail trauma.
pain on tail manipulation; reduced tail mobility or abnormal carriage; reluctance to have the tail handled
## Overview Coccygeal vertebral arthritis is osteoarthritis of the joints between the vertebrae of the tail. It is uncommon as a primary clinical problem but can produce tail stiffness, pain on manipulation, or reduced tail tone and carriage. Trauma or repetitive strain are the usual triggers. ## Causes Direct trauma, falls, or chronic repetitive loading of the tail. Degenerative change can also occur with age. ## Diagnosis Palpation and manipulation of the tail elicit pain or reveal reduced mobility. Radiographs confirm osteophytes or joint-space changes when clinically indicated. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and avoidance of further trauma. Most cases are managed conservatively. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for comfort. Residual stiffness may remain. ## Prevention Minimizing tail trauma.
pain on tail manipulation; reduced tail mobility or abnormal carriage; reluctance to have the tail handled