Coccyx

Medical Topic of the Day:  This is probably the last in the series of misunderstood and/or abused, neglected and otherwise ignored body parts.  Today we are looking at something as fun to say as it is to talk about.  The coccyx.

Off the Top of My Head:  That little guy at the end of your tailbone, the coccyx, is all that remains of the tail of our ancestors.  It is sorta pointy, and does not seem to serve much purpose other than to easily break when we fall on our ass.  But does it do anything beneficial?  Let's find out.

My Research Today:  The coccyx is a small triangular bone forming the lower most part of the spinal column.  It comprises between three to five fused or "ankylosed" vertebrae and is all that remains of the vestigial tail in tail-less primates.  It is possible for some individuals to have up to five non-fused bony segments that comprise their coccyx.

Like all of the vestigial organs we have examined, the coccyx is not without utility as it provides a very important attachment points for muscle structures near our ass.  Speaking of your ass, part of your gluteus maximus is attached to the coccyx.  The coccyx also supports the position of your anus and anchors your pelvic floor aiding in defecation and continence.

Not with your coccyx you didn't!

With all those attachments and support your coccyx can cause any number of issues if it is fractured or otherwise damaged although a fracture is usually just painful.  The coccyx can be extracted if needed as long as special accommodations are made for the attachments.  Women have a greater chance of breaking their coccyx because they have a broader pelvic seat.

In Kim's case it is 20 times more likelier.

Well, that is all I feel like typing tonight.  Type at you later.

Quest To 180:
Sorta been slacking this week.  Not really over-eating though.  I gotta get back on track.

The MAN:
Meh