<s>[INST] diagnosed with herniated discs at l1-l2, l4-l5 and l5-s1.  went through Physical therapy for six weeks, course of steriods and nsaids - was feeling great for about 3 months. did something the other day and i'm in agony...other than taking more nsaid and ice any other suggestion for alleviating pain? doc can't see me until later next week [/INST] Hi,Thank you for posting your query.The pain in your case is neuropathic in nature, due to compression of nerves in the lower back due to herniated discs.This pain generally would not respond well to NSAIDs alone. So, I would recommend using pregabalin or gabapentin capsules, which are specific for relieving neuropathic pain.In addition, if pain does not subside, epidural injections may be given.I hope it helps. Please get back if you require any additional information.Wishing you good health,Dr Sudhir Kumar MD (Internal Medicine), DM (Neurology)Senior Consultant NeurologistApollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, IndiaClick on this link to ask me a DIRECT QUERY:  BLOG: </s>