@cookie07: I can unfortunately relate to the pain you are experiencing! For me “Sciatica”seems to be on its own timeline, no matter what topical lotions, physical therapy, topical meds, massage, lidocaine patches, hot/cold therapy, pain meds, etc. that we try. And in the grips of this intense pain I will try anything! I have experienced all your symptoms.
My non-medical peer explanation for this pain is that it stems from pinched spinal nerves around vertebrae which inflames and intensifies symptoms and pain.
I think “time”of about six weeks and keeping leg elevated slowly relieves the inflammation and finally the pain is gone.
I had been successful in aleviating the Sciatica pain. I wear a restrictive back brace (FreeToo) at the first “twinge” of back pain and limit all movement… sleeping flat or feet raised to take pressure from lower back, no twisting or bending, etc. I wish I could say this has always worked. Good posture, walking with intention and at slower pace may help too. Hope you get relief soon!