I am using real turmeric powder that I make  from actual turmeric root, since 2006 for sciatic nerve related back pain that began in 1983. It works within 20 minutes of taking it. I dissolve maximum three teaspoons a day in juice or water, when I have pain as a result of aerobic exercise such as Zumba. I am 67 years old, and still walk 4 miles a day, weight lift and do aerobic exercises every day like a 47 year old would do. The turmeric pills have very little curcumin in it hence it does not work. Buy the the root, puree it and make ice cubes, use an ice cube a day. It is good for your brain health too. You could grow this root in a pot if you are in the cold weather area or if you are in warm weather states, you could grow them in your yard like I do or you could buy it from any Indian grocery stores where they sell vegetables usually found next to ginger.