QuestionI am 22wks and 3 days pregnant with my second child. With the delivery of my first child I broke my tailbone. It was very painful for at least 8 weeks. For the past week I have been experiencing a popping in my low back or tail bone area when I am walking... it is not painful... but I am just worried about it becoming painful or causing some nerve damage. What could be causing this popping? Are there any exercises I can do to make the popping stop? Also, today I have been having some mild pain in my left buttock. The popping seems to be more left sided also. Please help, my next Dr appointment is not for 4 more weeks.
AnswerDear Jenny,
Congratulations on your pregnancy. I haven't have a patient with broken tailbones in my practice. Popping sound is usually caused by one of the following reasons:
1. Gases (oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide) that are accumulated and released in the synovial fluid in your joints form bubbles.
2. Tendons change positions during movement. They make sounds as they return back to the original position.
3. Arthritis results in the tear and wear of smooth cartilage. Rough surfaces can create a popping sound.
If there is no pain, it might be just the gas release. I would certainly mention it to your doctor at the next appointment.
Gentle stretching sometimes helps with eliminating sounds, as it improves circulation around joints and builds up the synovial fluid. However, it takes time. Try gentle hip rotation.
The pain in the buttock in pregnancy is often caused by sciatica. It is alleviated by a special stretch of the piriformis muscle. I can not attach the picture to my answer. If you send me your email I will be happy to forward you the description of the stretch with the photograph. (Of course, sciatica is only one of the possible causes for pain and I can not diagnose over the internet. This is another question for your doctor).
Good luck and I hope it helps.
Anna
