Pelvis | Coccyx pain while cycling | Saddle

Coccyx pain while cycling

With a very upright sitting position, the coccyx comes very close to the bicycle saddle. In combination with a saddle that is too soft or too narrow, this can lead to complaints. To avoid a painful coccyx - especially for women - a SQlab step saddle is recommended.

Causes of tailbone pressure

Too narrow saddle

Too soft saddle

Too narrow saddle

Cause - saddle too narrow

can lead to high pressure on the tailbone

SQlab Solution

Step saddle with pressure distribution according to medical aspects on the sit bone

This problem usually only occurs in women, as the female coccyx is more flexible and often more sensitive than the male coccyx. Cyclists who maintain a very upright posture often find their coccyx in close proximity to the bicycle saddle, potentially leading to discomfort. This issue is particularly pronounced when using saddles that are excessively soft or narrow, which can exacerbate pressure on the sensitive coccyx area. Women riders, in particular, may experience increased vulnerability to coccyx pain due to anatomical differences. SQlab step saddles, when chosen in the correct width, provide optimal support for the sit bones, effectively preventing the tailbone from coming into contact with the saddle surface.

Sit bone measurement for the correct saddle width

Too soft saddle

Cause - too soft saddle

leads to sinking sit bones

SQlab Solution

SQlab saddle models in different saddle firmnesses adapted to riding duration and area of use

Sit bones get used to the load

Deep-seated muscles and tendones are stimulated by soft pads

Saddles that are too soft often lead to increased pressure and pain on the coccyx. The reason for this: If you sink too low due to soft padding the coccyx can be put under greater strain and press painfully on the saddle.

SQlab Solutions

Coccyx pain when cycling is a common problem, especially for women. Studies have shown that a saddle that is too narrow or too soft can be the main cause. If you sink too low due to soft padding or a saddle that is too narrow, the coccyx can be put under greater strain and press painfully on the saddle.

The step saddle concept can help with coccyx pain by optimizing pressure distribution. The saddle is lower at the front than at the back, which means that the sit bones are better supported and the body weight does not put pressure on the sensitive coccyx. This means that the pelvis sinks less, as is the case with soft or too narrow saddles. By providing targeted relief for the coccyx, the stepped saddle offers a pain-free riding position and increases comfort.