Sciatica with Lupus

[kmuirhead]

I have really bad sciatica at the moment which has gone on for 4 weeks. I have had it in the past but never for so long or as bad. GP has increased my AMT, but now at top of pain relief meds, next alternative Morphine, which I have refused. Does anyone have any advice how to help the pain. I am using heat therapy at the moment.

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi kmuirhead ,

We have a blog article about pain management with various tips and experiences at lupusuk.org.uk/pain-managem...

I hope you find this helpful.

[Lilrosie1 in reply to Paul_Howard]

What is DNA positive mean

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to Lilrosie1]

Hi Lilrosie1 ,

This most likely refers to the anti-dsDNA antibody test (also sometimes referred to as the DNA antibody test). Anti-dsDNA antibodies are autoantibodies that are highly specific to lupus. You can read more about them in our factsheet here - lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

[Lilrosie1 in reply to Paul_Howard]

What does tier 3 mean

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to Lilrosie1]

I'm afraid I don't know what you are referring to? What was the 'tier 3' in reference to?

[PMRpro]

Painkillers just mask the pain (maybe) - it would be a good idea to find if there is a cause and look at that.

One common cause is spasmed muscles in your back due to myofascial pain syndrome and also piriformis syndrome - the tight muscles trap the nerve and cause the pain. I have had good results from physiotherapists doing therapeutic massage on the tight muscles and also from a technique called Bowen therapy. If Bowen is going to help you will know within 3 session - if it hasn't done anything by then it probably won't and you can stop.

[kmuirhead in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you so much for your helpful reply

[Marley]

I have sciatica although I have never thought it was linked to my Lupus. Exercise which strengthens your back and hip area will help. If you look on you tube you can find videos specifically for people with sciatica. I follow Jessica Valant Pilates. She’s really good.

[kmuirhead in reply to Marley]

Thank you so much for your reply. I will certainly look in to this