How did you beat sciatica? Advice needed!

[Beadlet]

I’ve read through every thread on this subject but many have loose ends where you never find out how someone did in the end.

I’ve been suffering for 6 months (history of lower back pain prior to this) and it has recently escalated and I’m in a lot of pain for much of the day. I have an MRI referral, even though I’m fairly certain a disc herniation is causing it it would be nice to rule out anything else. I’m speaking to the doctor today to ask for some new pain meds, having been mainly on naproxen it is no longer as effective so I’m going to ask for something for nerve pain.

What I would really like to know is for those people that overcame sciatica, how long did it take you, and what was it that really helped? Or did you just wake up one morning and it was gone? Am feeling really down at the prospect of more months of chronic pain. It really has sucked the joy out or life and with children and a demanding job I’m struggling.

Thanks @withaheyandahoandaheyheyho I’m going to take up swimming and investigate some more supportive / cushioned footwear. Much as I love my saltwater sandals I think the lack of foot support isn’t helping.

I’ve had two acute episodes this year. But have had it chronically , in the background for years. Probably a combination of work related and one leg being slightly longer than the other. I recently lost a fair bit of weight after the first episode this year as it is supposed to help, but it appears to have triggered perineal nerve neuropathy in the other side (loss of fat around the nerves can cause trouble and I tend to lose weight quickly in thighs and arse.
Second episode during lockdown was horrendous, the muscles in my thigh and calf went into spasm for nearly a month so GP suggested antispasmodic rather than amitriptyline. This has worked really well, but due to being off my legs for 4 weeks I have overcompensated with the other leg so now have mild sciatica on that side now.
The neuropathy will hopefully settle but may take some time.
I could do with mri to check the discs but will wait until things are more normal.
Baclofen is now being used for back pain. It may not suit everyone, but I’m defo a fan.

Thanks @Angrymum22 I also have a longer leg, hoping orthotics may help balance things out there. I hope things settle down for you soon.