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

Seeing a health professional for low back pain or sciatica

Your healthcare professional should talk with you about your symptoms and how they affect you day-to-day. They should check that your pain isn't caused by another health problem, such as cancer, a fracture or an infection. This is particularly important if you get new or changing symptoms.

Your healthcare professional should give you advice and information about low back pain and sciatica. They should explain what you can do to help manage the pain.

They may refer you to a physiotherapist or a specialist to help with diagnosing and treating your back pain or sciatica. The therapist or specialist can check if an X‑ray or MRI may be needed.

They should encourage you to carry on with your normal, everyday activities if you can. This should include supporting you to go back to work, if needed.