Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management

Excerpt

This guideline covers assessing and managing low back pain and sciatica in people aged 16 and over. It outlines physical, psychological, pharmacological and surgical treatments to help people manage their low back pain and sciatica in their daily life. The guideline aims to improve people’s quality of life by promoting the most effective forms of care for low back pain and sciatica.

The recommendations in this guideline were developed before the COVID-19 pandemic.

For advice on neuropathic pain not related to sciatica, see the NICE guideline on neuropathic pain in adults.

In December 2020, we reviewed our guidance on opioids for non-cancer pain in response to a Public Health England evidence review on dependence on, and withdrawal from, prescribed medicines. To support discussion with patients about opioid prescribing, and safe withdrawal management, we are developing guidance on safe prescribing and withdrawal management of prescribed drugs associated with dependence and withdrawal and shared decision making. In the meantime, we have added links in this guideline to other NICE guidelines and other resources that support this aim.

Who is it for?:

1. Healthcare professionals

2. Commissioners and providers of healthcare

3. People with low back pain or sciatica, and their families and carers