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Sciatica can be simple to treat if it is caught early and is not caused by other problems. My sciatica was helped by a combination of anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone shots, and physical therapy. During physical therapy, I exercised my back to build strength and to stretch the back muscles. They also used heated electrical pulses on the hip area. It took a while, but it was under control. At home, when I have a flare up, I usually take something, apply an ice pack, and do stretching exercises to get relief. You can alternate cold packs and heat packs (moist heat works better) at home if the ice is not enough.

Your doctor will probably give you a prescription for pain medication if other therapies are not enough, or if the problem has to do with a disc or bone in the spine. Over the counter pain medications may work, or you may have to go to a stronger medicine like a narcotic.

Other possible avenues of treatment include osteopathy, chiropractic, relaxation and even acupuncture. Some are experimenting with botox injections, but this too should not be tried until other things have failed. If nothing helps with the pain, you may need surgery on your back, but this is a last resort.

Regardless of the treatments your doctor prescribes, it is helpful to remain as active as possible, continue exercising and stretching the back (as possible) even when the pain eases to help prevent recurrence. You should also be careful about lifting and other activities that may cause you to hurt yourself again.

Learn more about this author, Angela S. Young.
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