Heat works sometimes. I have a painful sciatic nerve in my lower back. So Aleve and heat.

I have degenerative disc disease. Heat can help. I also use Tiger Balm patches which help me sleep better

Have you tried a tens unit

Bengay ointment and Motrin prescription strength and stay hydrated

Have you tried going to the chiropractor? I had an injury at work that gave me terrible pain for months before I got the nerve to do something about it. I was diagnosed with sciatica. The chiropractor did wonders for me. I no longer suffer from the pain. She also helped me with exercises that make my back stronger, so i dont get the same injury. I see you already take Vicodin. Does that help at all? If not, you can talk to your doctor about a higher dose or different medication or adding an additional pain medication. Heat is a good alternative therapy. Physical therapy is a good option. You could use guided imagery (just search it on YouTube), aromatherapy (buy an oil diffuser and different oils. I love lavender, but there’s different oils that do different things), meditation, acupuncture could also help, but having a crap ton of needles stuck in my back terrifies me, so I’ve never tried it. If you want more medication, don’t take an over the counter pain med without consulting your doctor. But an ointment or patch could help!