I've been there. Two herniated discs pushing on the sciatic nerve. The cortisone shot MIGHT help.

In the end what's done me best over time is a combination of physical therapy, massage (I know some good if very expensive people), and (initially when I lost sensation in my foot) acupuncture.

The pain is horrible. The painkillers can make you grouchy as fuck. did they put you prednisone or some other steroid as well? THOSE have to be the worst pills I have ever eaten.

you have my sympathy. Almost two years later and I'm still recovering. :/