Sciatica Pain Not Helped More By Steroids Than Placebo, Study Suggests

First Posted: May 21, 2015 12:13 AM EDT
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New findings published in JAMA show that while doctors often prescribe steroids to help with sciatica for the pain of a herniated disc, it may be in vain. Researchers found that it did relatively little to help, particularly when compared to participants who received a placebo instead of those on steroid pill.

"When we compared the prednisone to placebo, there was a modest improvement in function," said study researcher Dr. Harley Goldberg, director of spine care services at Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center in California. People reported they could go about their daily activities somewhat better than before, via Health Day.

However, "when we compared the pain [between the two groups], there was actually no difference," he added.

The study involved adults who had radiating leg and buttock pain for up to three months. All had a herniated disc that was confirmed by an MRI. Half took a short, tapered course of steroids at about 20 milligrams, three times a day for five days, and once a day for five days -- for a total of 600 milligrams. Those on the placebo took identical-looking pills using the same dosing schedule.

Findings revealed little differences in those who received steroid treatments and those who received the placebo. 

Researchers are still trying to determine the proper treatments to fix sciatic. Some believe it may just be rest and time.

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