Pain that comes on slowly may feel like a typical part of aging. Sudden pain, however, often drives people to get emergency care. But both conditions need a proper diagnosis from a medical professional so you can get the right treatment and prevent further damage.

Treatment for arthritis

Arthritis treatment aims to lower pain and inflammation while improving mobility.

Medication is a common treatment option for arthritis. These medications can include over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as ibuprofen.

In more severe cases, prescription muscle relaxants may be prescribed. Pain-relieving opioids can be used, too, but these are frequently only prescribed for short periods of time.

In addition to pain management, a healthcare professional will likely recommend home exercises or physical therapy. These treatments can teach you movements and stretches that may help lower pain and provide relief.

Aerobics, weight training, yoga, and resistance exercise can also be used at home or with a physical therapist to strengthen the muscles of your core and spine and hopefully lower future inflammation and injury.

In rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair discs or remove bone spurs.

Treatment for sciatica

Even without treatment, sciatica can resolve on its own in a few weeks, but because the pain can be so debilitating, treatment is typically needed.

TreatmentTrusted Source for the symptoms of sciatica include pain-relieving medications, both OTC and prescription. Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to lower pain, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help lower inflammation.

Gentle stretches may help relieve the pain and tingling in the back and legs. It’s usually advisable to avoid any activities that worsen the pain such as sitting or standing for long periods of time.

Hot and cold packs can also be helpful. Alternating between these two may help lower inflammation and pain.

In some cases, steroid injections may be needed for immediate relief. Surgery may also be required if a structural issue in the spine or pelvis is putting pressure on a lumbar nerve.

Back pain shouldn’t be taken for granted as you age. Sure, wear and tear on the bones of the spine and hips can cause pain and stiffness, but debilitating pain isn’t a certainty.

Both sciatica and osteoarthritis can impact your spine and, with age, are more common. But both conditions can be treated, and in some cases, the pain and symptoms they cause can even be prevented.

To get the right treatment, you first need an accurate diagnosis. So, if you’re experiencing pain or stiffness in your back, make an appointment to visit a doctor or healthcare professional. Getting the right type of treatment can provide relief, lower pain, and improve your mobility and quality of life.

https://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis/arthritis-and-sciatica