BeeZee
Hi piano teacher.I have had sciatica for a very long time.I find that tylenol and NSAIDs do not do any good also.I am allergic to them anyway, but do take tylenol as a last resort. My doc lets me have Vicodin for the really bad times and I've just finished a series of epidurals, which seem to help a little, but even a little is better than no relief.I too do not like the way the stronger meds.make me feel but sometimes it seems that you just have to get some relief.My doc has me on Ultram...helps a little also with (for me)no side effects.I am also on Paxil. It must be very hard for you with small children, my kids are all grown up.Try to get yourself(and the kids)out for a walk as often as possible. I find it helps mentally too.There is a lot of talk about "endorphins" and exercise,but I am tired of hearing the word!Folks who get really excited about the term I find, have no idea what real pain is all about.It is a tough life,but I am fortunate to have a great family, so I count my blessings, but I don't thank God for this misery!Feel better and keep on keeping on.Bz