Table 2. Symptom control methods

                              Recommended

Nonprescription analgesics

Acetaminophen (safest) NSAIDs (Asprin[1],Ibuprofen[1])

Prescribed                    Prescribed
pharmaceutical methods        physical methods

Nonspecific low back          Nonspecific low         Sciatica
symptoms and/or sciatica      back symptoms

Other NSAIDs[1]               Manipulation (in
                              place of
                              medication or a
                              shorter trial if
                              combined with
                              NSAIDs)

                                Options

Nonspecific low back          Nonspecific low         Sciatica
symptoms and/or sciatica      back symptoms

Muscle relaxants [2,3,4]      Physical agents         Manipulation (in
                              and modalities [2]      place of
                              (heat or cold           medication or a
                              modalities for          shorter trial if
                              home programs           combined with
                              only)                   NSAIDs)

Opioids [2,3,4]               Shoe insoles [2]        Physical agents
                                                      and modalities [2]
                                                      (heat or cold
                                                      modalities for
                                                      home programs
                                                      only)

                                                      Few days' rest [4]

                                                      Shoe insoles [2]

 1.  Aspirin and other NSAIDs are not recommended for use in combination
     with one another due to the risk of GI complications.
 2.  Equivocal efficacy.
 3.  Significant potential for producing drowsiness and debilitation;
     potential for dependency.
 4.  Short course (few days only) for severe symptoms.