Well at least for me. Maybe you too.
I have sciatica, not bad but I do have it and have had it for years. After going to the Dr. And getting no results I decided to do something on my own so, I am a exercise nut and am fully aware of streaching so decided to do a simple streach that has helped me eliminate almost all of the pain....98%.
First, go slowly, don't expect results too fast, this will take time.
Stand in front of a table, countertop or something stable so that you can lay your foot upon without breaking something.
Raise your foot the the top and lay your heal on the top....While still standing on the other foot so that your leg is 90 degree from the other one. This may be very difficult for older people but start off slow.
Slowly, start moving your upper body towards the leg (knee) that is on the table. I can actually touch my nose to my knee but i've been doing this for years and am very streched.
You may be able to move only a couple of inches but hold it for a count of 30 sec.
Keep, doing this everyday religously until you get fairly streached then do it a couple of times a week.
Bottom line, I believe this streaches everything nerves, muscles and tendons up and down the leg/back to the point that the pain most people experience will leave....Naturally.
See your doctor before doing this and make sure it's ok, but I think it will help most people with back pain if you stick with it.