Overview
Peripheral neuropathyOverview The peripheral nervous system is divided into three... More sciatica is a pseudo-sciatica that mimics traditional sciatic nerve pain traveling down the lower back into both legs and down to the feet. This pain may come and go in the beginning but is known to progress to a chronic state. Therefore, pain treatment should follow the same course as peripheral neuropathy. While true sciatica occurs from problems arising from the compression of the nerve root source of the sciatic nerve, pseudo-sciatica develops from the smaller nerves. These are the nerves controlling the motor and sensory needs which branch out throughout the body into the lower extremities.
Treating Your Pain
Over-the-counter pain relievers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are helpful with early pain. Capsaicin-based creams may provide temporary relief; however, not everyone can use these creams without skin irritation. Daily massaging of the lower back and leg area with arnica oil has shown good temporary pain relief results.
When Over-The-Counter Is Not Enough
Eventually, chronic pain will progress to the point of being unbearable. You should consult your physician or pain clinic about the possibility of prescription medications. Superficial Siderosis patients often need to begin a pain regimen of multiple medications until a combination is found that will work for them.
- Anti-convulsant medications*
- gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin)
- pregabalin (Lyrica), developed to treat epilepsy, may relieve nerve pain.
*Side effects can include drowsiness and dizziness.
- Antidepressants (some tricyclic antidepressants)
- amitriptyline
- doxepin
- nortriptyline (Pamelor)
Please Note: These prescription pain medications are suggestions that superficial siderosis patients have reported some success in controlling pain. Livingwithss.com is not a physician or medical professional and so cannot endorse a specific treatment. Please consult with your physician or pain clinic before beginning any suggested regimen.
Updated November 5, 2020