[MargaretR]

Sciatica is most commonly due to a slipped disc, but not always, so press your doc to ascertain the cause - until then you will only get treatment to lessen pain.

I have a similar problem at the top section of my spine which affects one of the two main nerves down my left arm, so you have my sympathy. Mine is due to osteoarthritis in the top seven spine sections and a slipped disc.

My doc has been limited in which painkillers he could offer me due to a minor gastric problem. Some painkillers do cause stomach irritations.

From my experience distalgesics were the best but the NHS has ceased prescribing them because too many people used alcohol at the same time and died.

I have also tried Solpadol which is a combined codeine and paracetemol, which worked, until I became addicted to them and then got nausea as a side effect. It is easy to become addicted to any drug that relieves the pain but codeine is a known addictive drug ---- so beware of that.
All my doc can offer me now is paracetamol ----useless.

I have been trying herbal solutions - rosehip extract is said to lessen the inflammation -- been taking it for a few months now-- like any herbal remedy it takes a while to feel any difference.

Like you I have a tens machine but the instructions say not to place the pads directly on the spine, so I have found it to not much help.

The best advice I can give you is to websearch any meds prescribed --some may well kill pain (wonderful) but cause you more health problems later.

Good luck -- press for a full diagnosis