Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I have sciatica. I had lumbar surgery 40+ years ago with disc removal. Now at times the sciatic pain is often quite intent and at times I have to urinate right away to relieve the pain and also sit down for a short period of time. I take xaralto for DVT and Plavix, an operation is not recommended. Your opinion please.
[|AI|]  Hi there. Back pain and sciatica can be quite disabling at times. Right now with the way your symptoms are going, I'm sure the nerve roots around your vertebrae might be getting compressed in some way due to all the degenerative changes that have happened over the last 40 years. Now when it comes to conservative management, whenever you have an episode of intense pain, take bed rest for some time and ambulate only within your limits, avoid sitting for long time. As the pain comes down and during those intervals of time when you are asymptomatic or relatively pain free, concentrate on strengthening your back muscles by doing extension exercises. Weight loss by either dieting or going for regular walks will help you a long way by reducing the loads that your spine will be subjected to. Try avoiding excessive manipulation by a chiropractor or a massage therapist as given the prior history of disc surgery already performed on your back, the pain might worsen. Thank you.