Avoid lifting, bending your back and sitting in soft chairs for long periods. Medication Your doctor will prescribe some tablets for your pain and perhaps some tablets to relieve inflammation around the nerve. These are very good if you can manage them, and swimming is one of the best. Your doctor will advise you. Other treatments Your doctor could advise traction, gentle mobilisation of your lower back or epidural injections to accelerate healing.
Some people find electrical stimulation and acupuncture helpful.