When is anti-inflammatory medication recommended for sciatica?

Sciatica, also called lumbar radiculopathy or sciatic nerve pain, occurs when a nerve root in the lower back is irritated or compressed. Pain may travel from the back or buttock into the leg, with tingling, numbness or weakness. An anti-inflammatory medicine may help some pain, but it cannot correct every cause of nerve irritation.

A clinician or pharmacist should check stomach ulcers, kidney disease, blood pressure, heart history, pregnancy plans and other medicines before recommending an option. Use the advised dose and avoid doubling up with similar products. Short periods of comfortable walking, changing position and prescribed exercises are often more useful than staying in bed.

Seek emergency care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the genitals or anus, or rapidly worsening weakness in both legs. Get prompt assessment for fever, unexplained weight loss, a history of cancer, major trauma, or severe pain that is rapidly worsening. Seek urgent help for black stools, vomiting blood, facial swelling or breathing difficulty after medicine.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest nerve compression needing examination, how long to try the medicine, which activity is safe, and what change in strength, sensation or bladder function should prompt immediate help.