Sciatica Back Pain

[Michael G.]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

[villagetinker]

I found a chiropractor Dr. David Kuhns (Wildwood) that treated mine for 6 to 8 weeks, and that was 3 years ago, never returned.

[retiredguy123]

Sciatica occurs when a bulging disc or a bone touches on the sciatic nerve. I had surgery to correct it many years ago, and it worked. They removed part of a disc. But, in older people, it can be caused by arthritis where the bone touches on the nerve. A chiropractor will take your money, but won't fix it. Medicine won't fix it. An epidural is a waste of time and money. The MRI is the way to go, but it doesn't always diagnose it properly. If the pain is not too bad, don't rush into surgery because it may correct itself over time. Good luck.

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

I had this and it hurt really bad. First thing my doctor did was recommend I go to physical therapy. Wrong! Then he recommended I go to a chiropractor. Double wrong!

Then he suggested, albeit gingerly, that I go a pain doctor. The pain doctor said I needed an MRI. After that we scheduled a time in the the same surgery that I used later for a colonoscopy, and they put me to sleep and he stuck a needle into the spot on my back that was indicated on the MRI. I went home and the next day it was like something magical happened. That was nineteen years ago and I’m still pain free.

[Bill14564]

The last time I had it the doctor recommended heavy doses of Tylenol. I don't know that it helped much. Tried various exercises, stretches, and heat packs but not sure that helped either. After about five weeks (hard to remember exactly) it gradually got better.

[tophcfa]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

I have the same problem, though it was sciatica. As it turns out my friggin right hip is bone on bone and the pain radiates up to the back and down the leg. Looks like more hardware going into that leg, already had the knee replaced. Dam, I sure had lots of fun skiing all those moguls, but I’m paying dearly for it now.

[firefighter4u]

I had it bad, and now an occasional flair up. Chiropractor did the trick and now I do Yoga stretches... seems to help.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Agree on a Chiropractor. Like anything else, choose wisely. Wait for MRI results and supply them to the DC. To me the least invasive way should always be explored first....before pain meds and surgical procedures. I don’t have a specific rec for you since I have a close friend in MA who treats me at his practice but I attached a Yelp link for May on DC in Sumter County. Best of luck!


THE Ultimate BEST 10 Chiropractors in SUMTER COUNTY, FL - Last Updated June 2024 - Yelp (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://m.yelp.com/search%3Fcflt%3Dchiropractors%26find_loc%3DSumter% 2BCounty%252C%2BFL&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwjz26iItb6GAxVqGFkFHXArBFYQFnoECAoQAg&usg=AOvVaw19sNnnQSYSlCALxLdYsfbJ)

[PJ_Smiley]

Certo (fruit pectin)

[MplsPete]

I like Aleve (Naproxen) if you can take NSAIDS. I also use some kind of decompression, like hanging from a chin up bar. Inversion tables (Eg., Teeter and others) get a lot of positive comments; many preowned are available on Craigslist, etc.
Of course, my medical advice is worth what you're paying for it, and check with your healthcare providers.

[blueash]

If you are interested the most recent review of the value, or lack of value, of Chiropractic treatment for low back pain is online
HERE (https://www.bmj.com/content/364/bmj.l689) or for those of you who won't click that you can do it
Benefits and harms of spinal manipulative therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials | The BMJ (https://www.bmj.com/content/364/bmj.l689)

This study looked at published data comparing chiropractic manipulation and compared it to sham manipulation where someone does something known to be useless to the patient, or compared to simply taking a drug like motrin, or to exercise etc.

There are lots of details to read, but the outcome was that chiropractic was no better than just taking motrin at any of the times measured, one month, six months, and one year. But of course the cost in dollars and time is not insignificant. It was better than fake treatment. YMMV

[Pugchief]

Everyone is different. Chiro helped me. So did ibuprofen.

Sciatica may be from 20 different causes. Tight IT bands is one of them. A massage gun or tiger tail helps with that. Stretching is mandatory. Or do yoga.

[Two Bills]

I was diagnosed with it some 25 or so years ago, and it was most painful.
At that time, my doctor was an elderly gentleman, and "old school."
His advice was suspending from a rail so full body wight was stretching the spine, walk a lot, work through it, and take a couple of painkillers when really bad.
I just went with it, did as the man said, and after some months it just went.
Did it go because of the exercise, or on its own accord, I haven't a clue, but it went and never returned.
Think the treatments are a little more sophisticated these days, but if all else fails, it's worth a try.
Worked for me.

[UpNorth]

You might want to try a SI belt. You wear it below your waistline and it takes the pressure off. Around $10 or so on Amazon. Works for me!

[VILLAGERBB]

I have suffered with bursitis/sciatica for about 6+ years. Physical therapy, chiropractor, My Primary Care recommends injections. I twisted somehow when I fell and can't seem to get realigned. I do daily exercises but it isn't enough to fix the problem. There is a new treatment called WPAT that I am interested in pursuing.

Dr. Wilt will be discussing FDA-approved EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology), an innovative and non-invasive treatment that could help you find relief from pain.

Jason Wilt, M.D.

When

Wednesday, June 12,
from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Where

Online Webinar via Zoom

What You Will Learn

History of EPAT: Discover the origins and development of this cutting-edge technology.
How EPAT Works: Understand the science behind EPAT and how it stimulates the body’s natural healing processes.
Conditions Treated by EPAT: Learn about the various conditions that can be effectively treated with EPAT, including musculoskeletal pain and sports injuries.

[retiredguy123]

I have suffered with bursitis/sciatica for about 6+ years. Physical therapy, chiropractor, My Primary Care recommends injections. I twisted somehow when I fell and can't seem to get realigned. I do daily exercises but it isn't enough to fix the problem. There is a new treatment called WPAT that I am interested in pursuing. I hope one day I will be able to live again.
I Googled WPAT. They said it was a radio station.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I Googled WPAT. They said it was a radio station.

Yeah....that acronym can take you to some unexpected places.
I thought poster meant WatchPAT but that’s for sleep disorders

[JMintzer]

Stretching, Stretching and MORE Stretching...

Also refrain for being sedentary when the pain flares up. I usually makes things worse...

[Shipping up to Boston]

Stretching, Stretching and MORE Stretching...

Also refrain for being sedentary when the pain flares up. I usually makes things worse...

TB 12....pliability!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

First, verify that it's sciatica pain and not a kidney stone.

Then - get pain relief for the immediate situation - whether that's CDB, THC, Tylenol, Alieve, prescription muscle relaxers (such as flexeril), or whatever you and your doctor agree is appropriate for your own situation.

Once the pain is reduced, get some physical therapy, including careful stretching exercises.

Also, I've personally found that Bigeloil helps. It's technically a horse liniment but people use it too. Kinda like liquid BenGay on steroids, without the grease, and the same smell but not nearly as strong-smelling.

If your pain isn't already running down your leg and is still isolated to your back/hip, try standing with your back against the kitchen counter. Then SLOWLY AND GENTLY lean back a few inches. It sounds counterintuitive but leaning back instead of forward can jiggle that nerve away from the muscles pinching it.

[Topspinmo]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

I feel your pain, going thought same thing. Please post results when get solution.

[Cobullymom]

If you are interested the most recent review of the value, or lack of value, of Chiropractic treatment for low back pain is online
HERE (https://www.bmj.com/content/364/bmj.l689) or for those of you who won't click that you can do it
Benefits and harms of spinal manipulative therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials | The BMJ (https://www.bmj.com/content/364/bmj.l689)

This study looked at published data comparing chiropractic manipulation and compared it to sham manipulation where someone does something known to be useless to the patient, or compared to simply taking a drug like motrin, or to exercise etc.

There are lots of details to read, but the outcome was that chiropractic was no better than just taking motrin at any of the times measured, one month, six months, and one year. But of course the cost in dollars and time is not insignificant. It was better than fake treatment. YMMV
Study specifically left out sciatica treatment. Which is what he's asking.

[Mellow]

Acupuncture about 6 treatments works wonders

[star20166@yahoo.com]

Physical therapy with CORA PT @ Grand Traverse Trail. I imagine your MD will have to order it for you. (352) 254-3370. My sciatic discomfort melted away.

[Susan1717]

I have a herniated disc and now arthritis all stemming from an accident. I do daily stretches and exercises via what I learned from PT, go the the gym, walk 5 miles at least 3-4 times a week, keep the extra 5 pounds off and most important stay away from foods that cause my body to have any inflamation. Every one’s different but I stay clear of bread, pasta, sweets, and starches. The best thing ever, for me, was having my PT instructor do “dry needling” on my back. WOW!! It was not painful at all and sure softened up my pressure point. Now I just keep up with my daily health routine.

[La lamy]

You might want to try a SI belt. You wear it below your waistline and it takes the pressure off. Around $10 or so on Amazon. Works for me!
Totally agree with the SI belt. I’ve been afflicted with Sciatica from playing pickleball in very cold weather without warming up properly. Avoided tweaking it for a week and it got better on its own with the SI belt. Good luck OP with finding your effective treatment.

[Mac1996]

A good chiropractor! Is by far the best option. But please be sure you get a good one. Just like any other profession, there’s good and bad.

[ithos]

I had it for a while primarily because I was driving a lot. It went away completely after I purchased a memory foam cushion.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08B3L1FGJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

[wawriwwawriw]

Acupuncture. My neurologist in VA in Tampa referred me to one. I was reluctant but we tried everything else except surgery. OMG! Life changer. Over six years almost pain free. Whatever that Colombian doctor did to me, worked. At times, if I do something stupid repaying me come back, but now it’s just one or two days and he’s gone again.

[JanRoberts]

What will relieve your pain will depend on what's causing it. I was forced by insurance to try EVERYTHING conceivably possible to relieve it for a year before I could have the L4/L5 lumbar fusion I needed to relieve it. By then the pain from surgery recovery was significantly less than the pain I had been in. What a nightmare that year before surgery was!

[LuvNH]

True Sciatica is a pinched sciatic nerve, a nerve which runs from your lower back down your buttocks and down to your feet.

I get bouts of it from time to time, and at one time the pain was so severe that I actually needed a cane to get around. I now walk, even when it is so bad you can hardly move, after a short time the pain eases. There is also an excellent Yoga stretch which helps.

You know that google is your friend, so google sciatic pain and there are some excellent stretches which will really help you.

[Bay Kid]

I have a Day 6 bicycle on a trainer. As soon as I get any pain I ride the Day 6 . Pain gone.

[Sandy and Ed]

Sciatica occurs when a bulging disc or a bone touches on the sciatic nerve. I had surgery to correct it many years ago, and it worked. They removed part of a disc. But, in older people, it can be caused by arthritis where the bone touches on the nerve. A chiropractor will take your money, but won't fix it. Medicine won't fix it. An epidural is a waste of time and money. The MRI is the way to go, but it doesn't always diagnose it properly. If the pain is not too bad, don't rush into surgery because it may correct itself over time. Good luck.
ALSO……sciatica is often caused by the periformis. Piriformis syndrome causes pain in the buttocks and hip. It occurs when the piriformis muscle irritates the sciatic nerve. An mri I had showed impingement of the nerve at the l4/5. Scheduled surgery after epidural did not help. Insurance denied until I would first get physical therapy. I went and was diagnosed with periformis issue. Exercise and deep massage cleared it up. No pain and no surgery. Recommend first try massage or chiropractor or pt. Before any “slice and dice”.

[Ski Bum]

All of the above... I hurt my disc as a teenager doing logging work. So I have been dealing with this all of my life. It bulges both sides, but more on the left.

PT to strengthen the muscles around the disc to give support. This is a must!

Strength training necessitates stretching.

Bulging means swelling, so anti-inflammatories. Whatever works for you.

Hydration.

In the beginning, I had ultrasound and laser therapy to calm the swelling. It worked for me.

Avoid sitting. Look up the pressure that puts on your spine.

Good shoes only!

Acupuncture can improve blood flow and healing. Massage from a trained professional too.

The only thing I would say no to is surgery. Look up the stats at 5 years out.

[Ltwise3500]

]I highly suggest in this chair yoga on You Tube. 15-20minutes every other day is better than a chiro or ibuprofen that will kill your kidneys.

Chair Yoga for Hips & Lower Back Release - Seniors & Limited Mobility
26K views 2mo ago Chair Yoga fo
...more

Yoga by Kierstie...

[Sleeved]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

I have it bad. Whenever it starts to kick in i go to the acupuncture provider. Only thing I’ve found that helps

[NoMo50]

You might try using a TENS unit. For me, it provided much needed relief. I would use the device 3-4 times daily, along with proper stretching exercises and walking when tolerable. My doctor prescribed Meloxicam and Cyclobenzaprine (muscle relaxer) as well. Fortunately, after a couple of weeks whatever had been pinching the nerve relaxed, and things were back to normal. The TENS unit gave me the temporary relief needed to be able to do the stretching exercises and walking, which no doubt helped. You can find them on Amazon for about 35 bucks.

[gbs317]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!
Yes I have it. The best way for me to alleviate the pain was stretching exercises. I had shots, chiropractic, and PT. First two was temporary fixes but PT taught me what to do with the stretching exercises and I do them almost daily and they work for me.

[VILLAGERBB]

Dr. Wilt will be discussing FDA-approved EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology), an innovative and non-invasive treatment that could help you find relief from pain.

Jason Wilt, M.D.
REGISTER TODAY
 

When

Wednesday, June 12,
from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Where

Online Webinar via Zoom

What You Will Learn

History of EPAT: Discover the origins and development of this cutting-edge technology.
How EPAT Works: Understand the science behind EPAT and how it stimulates the body’s natural healing processes.
Conditions Treated by EPAT: Learn about the various conditions that can be effectively treated with EPAT, including musculoskeletal pain and sports injuries.

[VILLAGERBB]

Sorry about that....it should be EPAT...

Dr. Wilt will be discussing FDA-approved EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology), an innovative and non-invasive treatment that could help you find relief from pain.

Jason Wilt, M.D.
REGISTER TODAY
 

When

Wednesday, June 12,
from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Where

Online Webinar via Zoom

What You Will Learn

History of EPAT: Discover the origins and development of this cutting-edge technology.
How EPAT Works: Understand the science behind EPAT and how it stimulates the body’s natural healing processes.
Conditions Treated by EPAT: Learn about the various conditions that can be effectively treated with EPAT, including musculoskeletal pain and sports injuries.



I Googled WPAT. They said it was a radio station.

[ronda]

I had this and it hurt really bad. First thing my doctor did was recommend I go to physical therapy. Wrong! Then he recommended I go to a chiropractor. Double wrong!

Then he suggested, albeit gingerly, that I go a pain doctor. The pain doctor said I needed an MRI. After that we scheduled a time in the the same surgery that I used later for a colonoscopy, and they put me to sleep and he stuck a needle into the spot on my back that was indicated on the MRI. I went home and the next day it was like something magical happened. That was nineteen years ago and I’m still pain free.

Just because the treatment the Dr. ordered didn't "fix" your problem doesn't mean it was "wrong". Causes of the problem can vary. The generally accepted procedure is to start out with less invasive remedies and if they don't work, move on to the next. PT and Chiropractic do help some people. I think you Dr. was "right".

[lottimeier]

I highly recommend Dr. Alexander FRANK, Chiropractic Physician, Board Cert. Chiropractic Neurologist. He has always helped me!

www.FFNG.org (352) 571-5155

Good luck!

[sdeikenberry]

Stretch every morning and I mean really stretch…like 15-20 minutes total. Physical Therapy taught me what stretches to use. From my shoulders, torso, hips(performis muscle), hams, Achilles. It takes time but it works. May stretch during the day also.

[tj971]

Hi, I experience severe pain on my left lower back down the left leg due to herniated disks causing nerve impingement. I’ve tried stretching, PT, Chiropractic care. All have given some minor temporary relief. I have tried just about every topical cream on the market and none have been effective. I recently started using Smooth Gator 60 Second Relief Pain Relief at bedtime in hopes that I could at least sleep without pain.The cream is the only OTC topical that works for me! It relieves and soothes the pain long enough for me to fall asleep and it helps me to sleep through the night too. It goes on without the burning sensation that some other topical pain relief creams cause. It can be purchased on the smooth gator website.

[vinricci]

Had unbearable back pain the travel down my left leg and couldn’t walk. When my pain doctor saw my MRI he said epidurals won’t help so he recommended a neurosurgeon. Saw Dr. Christopher Baker in Orlando and though I was against anyone messing around with my spinal cord he put my wife and I at ease by patiently going over my MRI layer by layer. Had L3 and L4 fused and that stopped the pain pretty quickly since the disc was no longer pressing on my spinal cord.
So I definitely recommend Advent health and Dr. Baker if you’re needing a competent caring neurosurgeon with over 35 years experience.
(407) 975-0200

[Nancy@Pinellas]

I had considerable back pain that radiated down my left leg. I went to the stretch zone in Pinellas Plaza, and had three sessions of stretching that took care of the problem completely. I now go every couple months just for a quick stretch.

[BlackHarley]

I found a chiropractor Dr. David Kuhns (Wildwood) that treated mine for 6 to 8 weeks, and that was 3 years ago, never returned.

Another vote for Dr. Kuhn. As a matter of fact, I just left his office. This guy knows what he's doing!

[Shipping up to Boston]

I had considerable back pain that radiated down my left leg. I went to the stretch zone in Pinellas Plaza, and had three sessions of stretching that took care of the problem completely. I now go every couple months just for a quick stretch.

Those concepts are popping up across the country. I went to a grand opening of one outside of Boston back in early spring. I was impressed.

[TeresaE]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

Nothing is worse than sciatica pain. I recommend StretchLab, located in the Trailwind Shopping Center off of 466a. Two doors down from the Publix. They do one-on-one, customize assisted stretch programs. I’ve seen people’s sciatica pain greatly relieved if not eliminated with regular sessions with the Flexologists. Also some UHC plans cover some of the cost. It’s worth an hour of your time to check it out.

[bp243]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

Physical therapy has always corrected my sciatica. It takes work and you need a doctor's script, but there are muscles that need stretching and once the sciatica is fixed you need to continue stretching. If you wish to see a professional, Dr. Brent Compton (Compton Chiropractic) is a chiropractor (DC) and medical pain doctor (MD). He corrected a back issue that has bothered me for 10 years. The combination of the two degrees is a game changer!

[billdozer]

I use a device called Back2Life. It stretches the lower back muscles. I use it twice a day for 12 minutes. Google Back2Life for information on it's continues passive motion for relief.

[Bwanajim]

Where do you put your wallet? I always carried mine in my back right pocket and used to walk 3 miles a day. One morning I woke up and could only walk four houses & limped home . Tried everything and then one of my friends says put your wallet in your front pocket. Sitting on it starts it. No more sciatica!!!

[Tadpole]

Sounds like sciatica; a herniated disc between 2 of your vertebrae. McKinzie exercises work! However, you need an orthopedic doctor to prescribe which of those exercises you need. It depends on where the herniated disc is located.

In 1993 I was diagnosed with a herniated disc between the 3rd & 4th vertebrae; confirmed with an MRI. I was scheduled to take a month-long trip in 2 days and wouldn't cancel it so, rather than an operation, my doctor prescribed the McKinzie exercise program, anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxer, pain, and steroids. It worked!!! I've had chronic back and sciatica off and on since then, but only because I get careless and do something dumb. My back punishes me for it. And all I need to do is the specific exercises given me back in 1993, and in one to 3 days it's gone. Better than an operation!

[Shipping up to Boston]

Where do you put your wallet? I always carried mine in my back right pocket and used to walk 3 miles a day. One morning I woke up and could only walk four houses & limped home . Tried everything and then one of my friends says put your wallet in your front pocket. Sitting on it starts it. No more sciatica!!!

Was waiting on a George Costanza wallet reference.....

https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DdKNUKQVHUf8&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwiBp7aZo8KGAxXXFlkFHXgwD5kQtwJ6BAgHEAE&usg=AOvVaw2tScRrxTAAepTEOhvwaCRe

[justjim]

I had surgery in my early 50’s after trying literally everything else. Golf game never the same but still play. Mayo Clinic. “Arthur” chimes in sometimes now but not much can be done about that. CBD helps some people. Worth a try. OP, good luck to you and others with back pain.

[smiley2362]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

I had severe sciatic pain for 8 months. I was on the verge of surgery. However, I went on a diet and limited my carbs and the pain disappeared within a few days. I’ve been pain free since October. Best of luck to you.

[LianneMigiano]

Mine started in MAY 2017 after multiple liftings of a suitcase filled with paperback books to take to a neighborhood social meeting. By OCT I had my 1st surgery (after shots on and off until then). During 2019 I had to go back for pain management shots every 3 months or so. By FEB 2020 I had a spinal stimulator implanted (which worked pretty well for a little more than a year). I then had to return for pain management shots where they discovered that I had a broken screw in my first surgery. I had my 2nd back surgery last JUL 2023. I was 82 and probably 15 pounds overweight. I WOULD NEVER RECOMMEND SURGERY FOR ANYONE WITH THOSE TWO ISSUES! I have regained the use of my left leg, but both feel swollen all around the knees so that they do not bend properly. They're tingly and numb all the time. I have fallen badly at least twice. I am worried that I've damaged some of the cages/screws that they placed from L2 to S1 last year. I will never return to the doctor for it again. I'll spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair if I have to. Be VERY CAREFUL IF you endure any surgery! DO NOT OVERDO IT AFTERWARD!!!!!

[jimjamuser]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!
Recently, I had the shooting pains down my back and both legs. I am rather old and woke up one day with my body shaking. The next day I could barely reach down to put on my shoes. Then next day a little more capability to move. I read that it often goes on for around one month and then can get better without doing anything. I thought I would have to give up sports and sell my personal equipment.
Fortunately, after about 2 and 1/2 weeks it went away by itself. And fortunately, it has not returned. Strange, I have not had any other MAJOR back problems since high school.

[jimjamuser]

I have the same problem, though it was sciatica. As it turns out my friggin right hip is bone on bone and the pain radiates up to the back and down the leg. Looks like more hardware going into that leg, already had the knee replaced. Dam, I sure had lots of fun skiing all those moguls, but I’m paying dearly for it now.
I played football and basketball in high school and like a hockey player, I paid with it with the loss of front teeth. I should have played volleyball, tennis, baseball, and track. Notice that I left out golf.

[jswirs]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!
I have been suffering now for about 5 months, same deal, back, hip, left leg. What a miserable nightmare! P/T, pain meds did not help much. Just had an epidural (L3 - L4) and the pain has been reduced by about 50%. Hope it last. In the meantime I am starting with a chiropractor. GOOD LUCK, and please let us know your progress, or lack thereof. Thanks.

[oneclickplus]

Two words: INVERSION TABLE

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!

[Rwirish]

Epidurals are the way to go for many but not all people.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

I have had success with physical therapy and stretching, a roman chair for inversion and back strengthening, ham string stretching, stomach muscle stretching, core muscle strengthening, standing and walking instead of sitting. . but my disc isn't hitting the sciatic nerve, its hitting nerves which control the muscles which raise my foot and toes. .

And for whatever reason, disc issues show up mostly at night. .

[Michael G.]

I got my MCI results and I have arthritis/sciatica.

I'm going to try the Epidural shot soon.

I hope it helps

[Pottszy]

I hope you saw my post. I think it will help

[Jack58033]

Try John Sarno. His books would be available at Barnes and Noble.

[JMintzer]

First, verify that it's sciatica pain and not a kidney stone.

Then - get pain relief for the immediate situation - whether that's CDB, THC, Tylenol, Alieve, prescription muscle relaxers (such as flexeril), or whatever you and your doctor agree is appropriate for your own situation.

Once the pain is reduced, get some physical therapy, including careful stretching exercises.

Also, I've personally found that Bigeloil helps. It's technically a horse liniment but people use it too. Kinda like liquid BenGay on steroids, without the grease, and the same smell but not nearly as strong-smelling.

If your pain isn't already running down your leg and is still isolated to your back/hip, try standing with your back against the kitchen counter. Then SLOWLY AND GENTLY lean back a few inches. It sounds counterintuitive but leaning back instead of forward can jiggle that nerve away from the muscles pinching it.

No way one can confuse Sciatica w/a Kidney Stone. Completely different symptoms...

[JMintzer]

I played football and basketball in high school and like a hockey player, I paid with it with the loss of front teeth. I should have played volleyball, tennis, baseball, and track. Notice that I left out golf.

Yet you still have back problems... Go figure...

[PugMom]

there is a procedure that allows the nerve to be 'killed'. it's burned in some way, leaving a numb spot where the pain once was. IF you go to the dr., & IF he says you need surgery, this is the best way to have it done. (i had mine done about 17 years ago, during fusion, still numb to this day). they can do it without sx, but tends to be a painful recovery for a few days. either way, IT WORKS! you will need to go back to the pain dr for it, though. good luck!!!

[Shipping up to Boston]

Is it me or did the OP check back in and say his MRI results confirmed sciatica.....and that he would be using an epidural to ‘treat’ it?

I believe the epi just masks the issue....there have been some great suggestions here that I hope are explored. Mostly drug free and non invasive....

[nn0wheremann]

Have you, had it?
What worked and what didn't?
I am not much of a medicine person to treat pain, only if the pain gets bad.

I had a MRI and going in for the results Monday.

The pain starts in my back, to my right hip, then down my right leg.

Cheers!
Physical therapy. Nothing else works. You need the right combination of muscle meat to keep that nerve here it belongs.