what do they prescribe for sciatic nerve pain
1 Physical therapy is often prescribed for sciatica.  Someone may receive special instructions from a doctor on dealing with back pain. Some will recommend using heat, others cold. One may also get information with pictures of back exercises and stretches one is expected to start when the pain improves.
In-Depth From A.D.A.M. Patients should understand that most people who have sudden low back pain, even with sciatica, have a high likelihood of substantial improvement over the first month. The most commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of back pain are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Evidence suggests that short-term use of NSAIDs brings effective relief in patients with acute back pain.
1 Epidural injections, which are injections of a steroid (commonly known as cortisone or prednisone) into the spine, are sometimes performed for persistent sciatica.  Studies have shown that exercise therapy is helpful to treat back pain that persists for more than a few weeks. Good exercises for sciatica include walking, yoga, Pilates, and other specialized exercise programs.