What is a key characteristic of the coccygeal vertebrae?

A key characteristic of the coccygeal vertebrae is that they are very susceptible to shock fracture. The coccyx, or tailbone, consists of several fused vertebrae at the very bottom of the vertebral column. Because it is exposed and not well padded by muscle or fat, it can easily be injured during falls or prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, leading to fractures or contusions. The coccyx serves as an attachment point for muscles and ligaments, but its structural design makes it more prone to injury from trauma than other vertebrae that have more protective surrounding structures.