Focused guide
Introduction
The coccygeal plexus is a small interconnected network of nerves near the lower end of the pelvis. It is part of the peripheral nervous system and helps carry sensation from the skin around the coccyx, while also contributing to signals for nearby pelvic muscles.
This guide introduces its roots, position, branches, functions, and the causes and care of coccyx pain. It is an educational overview, not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice.
01 · Structure
What is the coccygeal plexus?
A plexus is a network formed when nerve fibres from several spinal nerve roots join and redistribute. The coccygeal plexus is formed mainly by the descending branch of the ventral ramus of S4 together with S5 and the first coccygeal nerve, often written as Co1 or Cc1.
It lies on the pelvic surface of the coccygeus muscle, near the lower posterior pelvic wall. Its position places it close to the sacrococcygeal region and the muscles that help support the pelvic floor.
The coccygeal plexus is small, but its branches connect sensation around the tailbone with motor and joint-related functions in the nearby pelvic region.
02 · Functions
Area of supply and everyday role
Sensory fibres serve a limited area of skin between the coccyx and the anal region. They can carry information about touch, pressure, pain, temperature, and other forms of sensation. Proprioceptive fibres also provide information from the sacrococcygeal joint about position and movement.
Motor fibres contribute to the coccygeus and part of the levator ani. Together, these muscles form part of the pelvic diaphragm, which supports pelvic organs and helps close openings in the pelvic floor.
03 · Branches
The main branches
Anococcygeal nerve
The anococcygeal nerve is the principal cutaneous branch. It travels through the pelvic tissues and sacrotuberous ligament to supply skin near the coccyx and anal region. Its role is primarily sensory.
Nerve to the coccygeus
This branch carries motor fibres, mainly associated with S4 and with a smaller contribution from S5. It supports contraction of the coccygeus muscle.
Nerve to the levator ani
Fibres from S4 supply part of the levator ani. This muscle helps support the pelvic floor and contributes to continence and pelvic organ support.
Fibres to the sacrococcygeal joint
Articular and proprioceptive fibres carry information from the joint between the sacrum and coccyx.
04 · Clinical context
Coccydynia and coccyx pain
Coccydynia means pain in or around the coccyx. It may be felt after sitting, when standing up, during bowel movements, or with pressure on the lower spine. Pain can arise from the joint, surrounding muscles and ligaments, or irritated nearby nerves.
Possible contributors
Falls, direct blows, prolonged pressure on a hard seat, repetitive strain, changes after childbirth, joint movement, and differences in coccyx shape can all contribute. Sometimes no single cause is identified. Less common causes require assessment because infection, inflammatory disease, or a growth can also produce pain in this area.
Assessment and care
A clinician may ask about how the pain began, examine the area, and decide whether imaging or other tests are appropriate. Care depends on the cause and may include reducing prolonged sitting, using a suitable cushion, gentle movement, physiotherapy, and clinician-recommended pain relief. Persistent, severe, unexplained, or worsening pain should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Arrange medical advice for ongoing pain, pain after a significant injury, fever, weakness, numbness, bowel or bladder changes, or symptoms that are getting worse.
05 · Summary
Remember these points
The coccygeal plexus is formed by contributions from S4, S5, and the first coccygeal nerve. It lies in the lower pelvis and supplies a small area of skin near the coccyx, as well as nearby pelvic muscles and the sacrococcygeal joint.
Its most recognisable branch is the anococcygeal nerve. Coccydynia describes pain around the coccyx and can have several possible causes. Persistent symptoms need individual assessment rather than self-diagnosis.
Further reading
To place this topic in context, compare it with the sacral plexus, review nerve supply, or explore the anatomy of the nervous system.