LOW LEVEL LASER THERAPY FOR POSTPARTUM COCCYDYNIA

Postpartum Tailbone Pain, Red Light Therapy and Low Level Laser Therapy

Postpartum coccydynia, or tailbone pain after childbirth, is a common yet often overlooked condition that can significantly impact a new mother’s comfort and mobility. This pain is typically caused by pressure, strain, or trauma to the coccyx (tailbone) during birth, particularly in cases of prolonged labor, instrumental delivery, or forceful pushing. Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) or red light therapy, offers a non-invasive, evidence-based solution to reduce pain, promote healing, and restore mobility in women experiencing postpartum coccydynia.

Understanding Postpartum Coccydynia and Its Causes

The coccyx, or tailbone, is located at the base of the spine and plays a crucial role in pelvic stability and weight distribution when sitting. During childbirth, excessive pressure on the coccyx can cause bruising, misalignment, ligament strain, or even fractures, leading to sharp, aching pain that worsens when sitting, standing up, or during bowel movements.

Common Causes of Postpartum Coccydynia:

  • Prolonged Labor: Extended pressure on the coccyx can lead to inflammation and misalignment.

  • Instrumental Delivery: Forceps or vacuum-assisted births increase the risk of coccyx trauma.

  • Rapid or Forceful Pushing: Excessive strain can overstretch or injure ligaments supporting the coccyx - this is more common with an epidural due to the lack of sensation.

  • Pre-existing Pelvic Dysfunction: Conditions such as hypermobility or pelvic misalignment can contribute to postpartum coccyx pain.

How LLLT and PBM Help Relieve Postpartum Coccydynia

PBM delivers targeted wavelengths of red and near-infrared light deep into the affected tissues, stimulating cellular repair, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation. These therapeutic effects help to accelerate healing, relieve discomfort, and restore normal function to the coccyx and surrounding pelvic structures.

Key Benefits of LLLT, PBMT, and Red Light Therapy for Postpartum Coccydynia:

  • Reduces Inflammation and Swelling: PBMT helps calm inflamed tissues surrounding the coccyx, leading to pain relief.

  • Promotes Tissue Repair: Red light therapy stimulates collagen production and cellular regeneration, aiding in healing damaged ligaments and soft tissues.

  • Alleviates Pain and Improves Mobility: PBM modulates nerve activity to reduce pain perception, making sitting and movement more comfortable.

  • Enhances Circulation to the Coccyx Area: Increased blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to support tissue repair.

  • Non-Invasive and Drug-Free Solution: PBM provides a safe, non-pharmaceutical approach to postpartum recovery.

Scientific Research Supporting PBM for Postpartum Coccydynia

A recent 2025 study by Shreen R. Abdoelmagd et al. demonstrated that PBM significantly reduced pain levels and improved mobility in women suffering from postpartum coccydynia. The study highlighted PBM’s effectiveness in accelerating healing by reducing inflammation and stimulating tissue repair, offering a promising alternative to conventional pain management approaches.

Red Light Therapy and Postpartum Recovery

PBM therapy can be integrated into a comprehensive postpartum recovery plan, alongside pelvic floor therapy, gentle stretching, and ergonomic modifications to support healing. Many women find that starting PBM treatments early postpartum may help reduce the severity and duration of tailbone pain.

Painfree Postpartum with Low Level Laser Therapy

For new mothers experiencing tailbone pain after childbirth, LLLT, PBMT, and red light therapy provide an effective, non-invasive solution to restore comfort and mobility. Contact us today to learn more about how red light therapy for postpartum coccydynia can support your recovery as you transition to being a new mom.