Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying condition and not a disease process. It refers to pain that radiates along the course of the large sciatic nerve that travels from the lumbar spine into the buttocks and down the back of the leg into the foot and toes. Sciatica is most often caused by a herniated spinal disc, but can also be caused by other conditions such as bone spurs and tumors. Most cases of sciatica can be successfully treated with conservative measures like physical therapy, spinal manipulation, stretching and exercise, ice and medication.
NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are medications that are extremely common and are available both over-the-counter and by a prescription in more powerful dosages. NSAIDs such as aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen work by preventing the action of certain enzymes, called Cox-1 and Cox-2, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. This interference causes the body to not produce certain inflammatory chemicals that cause pain. NSAIDs are particularly useful in conditions such as arthritis and sciatica where both pain and inflammation are a part of the problem. All NSAIDs, including over-the-counter varieties, have risks associated with them, especially if they are taken for a long period of time. Potential adverse effects include nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, kidney failure and liver failure.
Narcotics
When pain is severe or NSAIDs have been ineffective at treating the pain associated with sciatica, a doctor may prescribe a short course of narcotic pain reliever. These medications are powerful in their affect and potential side effects. Narcotics work by blocking specialized receptors in the brain from recognizing pain signals, according to SpineUniverse.com. They do not take away pain, but modulate how it is perceived. Potential side effects include physical dependence, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting and respiratory depression.
Muscle Relaxers
In many cases of sciatica, muscle spasms are a component of the pain and can aggravate a herniated disc. Doctors often prescribe muscle relaxers in an effort to relieve the pain associated with a muscle spasm, and are often prescribed in conjunction with an anti-inflammatory agent, according to Mayoclinic.com.
Corticosteroids
When a spinal disc cracks and herniates out into the spinal canal, it can have two separate effects. First it can put direct pressure on a nerve that causes sciatic symptoms, but it also releases inflammatory chemicals that irritate the nerve and can lead to the same symptoms, according to SpineUniverse.com. The pain perceived as sciatica is often caused by these inflammatory chemicals. Corticosteroids can be injected directly into the site of the inflammation or can be taken orally to reduce inflammation and pain. These medications also have some potentially severe side effects and need to be taken carefully.
