Sciatica is pain along the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a large nerve that extends from the lower back and down to the back of each leg. A patient with sciatica will have some pain, feel weak and have a tingling or numb sensation down the respective leg. Common treatments for sciatica focus on alleviating symptoms rather than completely curing the condition.
Self-Care Measures
The New York Times Health Guide recommends first using heat or ice on the painful area to reduce the pain. Patients can also try over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease the pain. While sleeping, lie in a fetal position with a pillow placed between the legs. Or, if you sleep on on your back, place a pillow or towel under your knees.
Physical Therapy
According to the UK National Health Services (NHS), a patient with sciatica should remain as physically active as possible to reduce the severity of the symptoms. A doctor or physical therapist may recommend exercises to help strengthen the back muscles. These exercises will also encourage the release of more endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain killing chemicals.
Prescription Drugs
Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and/or muscle relaxants like diazepam that can help ease the symptoms of sciatica. For severe pain, doctors may prescribe stronger opiate-based painkillers like codeine. Anticonvulsant or antidepressant drugs may help with chronic pain. Doctors may also inject corticosteroids around the sciatic nerve to help reduce inflammation.
