Sciatica Pain Relief (Cont.)

 
Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants are drugs that are primarily used to treat seizures and may be useful in treating certain types of nerve pain. Anticonvulsants may also be prescribed with analgesics.
 
Antidepressants
Antidepressants, particularly tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and desipramine, have been shown to provide sciatica pain relief (independent of their effect on depression) and assist with sleep. Antidepressants alter levels of brain chemicals to elevate mood and dull pain signals. Many of the new antidepressants, such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are being studied for their effectiveness in pain relief.
 
Opioids
Opioids, such as codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine, are often prescribed to manage severe acute and chronic back pain, but should only be used for a short period of time and under a physician's supervision. Side effects of opioids can include:
 
  • Drowsiness
  • Decreased reaction time
  • Impaired judgment
  • Potential for addiction.
 
Many specialists are convinced that chronic use of these drugs is detrimental to the person with back pain, adding to depression and even increasing pain.
 

Physical Therapy for Sciatica Pain Relief

Exercises and/or physical therapy may be recommended to maintain motion of the spine, strengthen abdominal and back muscles, and build endurance, all of which help stabilize the spine. Some patients may be encouraged to try slowly progressive aerobic activity, such as swimming or using exercise bicycles.
 

Surgery for Sciatica Pain Relief

In the most serious cases, when the condition does not respond to other therapies, surgery may provide sciatica pain relief caused by back problems or serious musculoskeletal injuries. While some surgical procedures may be performed in a doctor's office under local anesthesia, others require hospitalization. It may be months following surgery before the patient is fully healed, and the patient may suffer permanent loss of flexibility. Since invasive back surgery is not always successful, it should be performed only in patients with progressive neurologic disease or damage to the peripheral nerves.
 
(Click Lower Back Surgery for more information about the different surgical options available for sciatica pain relief.)

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD