Sciatica (lower back nerve irritation)
About Sciatica (lower back nerve irritation)
Pain in the lower back and hip radiating down the back of the thigh into the leg. The pain usually increases with flexion at the hip. Patients also experience numbness and occasionally weakness in the leg. The disorder can be caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve (irritants may be released from a ruptured disc in the back), by a pulled muscle injury, or by a bulging (herniated) lumbar disk compressing a nerve root, most commonly the L5 or S1 root.Symptoms
Dull ache in back, burning sensation in back, pain that radiates down the leg, pain that increases with leg movement, numbness and tingling in the leg, weakness in the leg.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. An MRI may be done to identify other causes of the symptoms.Common tests: MRI.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
- Etodolac
- Salsalate
- Tolmetin
- Indomethacin
- Sulindac
- Piroxicam
- Ketorolac
- Oxaprozin
- Diclofenac
- Celecoxib
- Ketoprofen
- Nabumetone
- Diflunisal
- Morphine Oral
- Tramadol
- Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene
- Fentanyl Buccal (Transmucosal)
- Acetaminophen and Codeine
- Hydrocodone
- Fentanyl Transdermal
- Hydromorphone Oral and Rectal
- Meperidine
- Oxycodone
- Phenytoin
- Carbamazepine
- Prednisone
- Methylprednisolone Oral
- Amitriptyline
- Nortriptyline
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy is aimed at maximizing mobility and independence. The following treatments may be prescribed: medications, physical therapy, epidural steroid injection, and/or surgery. Medications may include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), gabapentin (Neurontin), phenytoin, carbamazepine, tricyclic antidepressants, and/or steroids.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Neurosurgery · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pain Medicine · Vascular and Interventional Radiology · Spine Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Sciatica (lower back nerve irritation).