See a pattern here?

Beer gut and poor core probably contribute more to sciatica than anything. And probably 90% of patients wont't take the responsibility to lose the weight and tone up. To them, a pill is easier and more desirable.

Kudos to those who do.

That being said, sure, it flares, and hurts, etc etc. Unfortunately, pills just aren't a good answer. For that matter, surgery isn't great all the time either (though some things only surgery will cure) I've had patients get better results with steroid shots, TENS units, manipulation (chiropractor or osteopath) for the most part.